What is forced marriage?
It is against the law to force someone to marry in Scotland. A forced marriage happens when one or both of the bride and groom do not (or cannot, due to capabilities) give full consent to the marriage and are pressured or abused into going ahead. Forced marriage is recognised as a form of domestic abuse, and in some cases, child abuse.
Child marriage is also illegal in the UK. In Scotland, the legal age to marry is 16. You can find more information on mygov.scot.
A marriage must always be entered into with free and full consent from both parties - bride and groom. Pressure to force someone into marriage can take many forms, including:
- Physical violence or threats
- Emotional or psychological abuse, such as being made to feel like you are bringing shame on your family
Forced Marriage vs Arranged Marriage
It is important to know the difference between a forced marriage and an arranged marriage:
- Arranged marriage: both people have agreed and consented to the marriage and are happy for the ceremony to go ahead.
- Forced marriage: one or both people do not consent and are pressured or abused into marrying.
How Forced Marriage Can Affect You
People facing forced marriage often feel:
- Frightened or unsafe
- Unhappy or anxious
- Worried about the future
Those being pressured may experience extreme duress or bullying, often from parents or extended family members. This abuse can include:
- Physical harm, such as hitting
- Being kept at home or isolated from friends
- No access to money
- Being taken abroad without consent
- In extreme cases, abduction or threats to life
Refusing a forced marriage may be seen by some as damaging the family’s reputation or betraying family honour (izzat), which can put a person at further risk.
Get Help
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or is worried about, a forced marriage, contact Hemat Gryffe Women’s Aid today:
- Phone: 0141 353 0859
- Our team can offer confidential advice and support to help you stay safe.
