Social dilemma: Britain slaps ban on forced marriages

Those found guilty of the largely hidden practice now face up to seven years in prison.

LONDON:

A law banning forced marriage in England came into effect on Monday, with those found guilty of the largely hidden practice now facing up to seven years in prison.

The legislation not only applies within England and Wales but also makes it a criminal offence to force a British national into a marriage abroad, as many youngsters are flown out to weddings in countries where they have roots, particularly Pakistan, India and Bangladesh.

Nearly two-thirds of the cases dealt with by the government’s Forced Marriage Unit (FMU) relate to Britain’s South Asian communities.

Campaigners welcomed the new laws as a “huge step forward”, while the government hopes they will help protect potential victims. 

Published in The Express Tribune, June 17^th, 2014.