Forced marriage becoming a crime provides police with a powerful enforcement tool to protect people at risk

National Policing Lead for Forced Marriage, Commander Mak Chishty said:

“Police forces have been working hard for several years with local councils, social services, schools and colleges and charities to prevent forced marriage through support and education.

“Today forced marriage becomes a crime. This provides police with a powerful enforcement tool to protect people at risk. We have used existing laws to prosecute people involved in forced marriages for assault, rape and kidnap but this new law defines forced marriage, sends a strong message that coercion has no place in marriage and will help bring about prosecutions.

“We will listen to victims or potential victims and work with them to find the best route to protect them; for some people this will be criminalisation but for others it may be civil action.

“Forced marriage is different to arranged marriage because it takes away personal choice, a basic human right. If you are concerned that you are being coerced into marriage or know someone else who you think may be at risk, please alert someone. Call the police, tell a teacher, friend or trusted adult. We have the powers to help and we will act to keep you safe.”

For more information please contact:

ACPO Press Office
Association of Chief Police Officers
e: press.office@acpo.pnn.police.uk