Children under five among scores feared being forced into marriage
At least 100 children aged 12 or younger have been referred to the Government's forced marriage unit in the past five years, Home Office figures have revealed.
TL;DR
- Home Office data reveals at least 100 children aged 12 or younger were referred to the Forced Marriage Unit (FMU) in the past five years.
- Of these referrals, 27 involved children aged five or under.
- Forcing someone into marriage is a criminal offense in the UK, with the legal marriage age raised to 18 in England and Wales in 2023.
- Campaigners express deep concern, warning of 'missing children' and that the actual number of cases is likely higher.
- The FMU receives referrals from various sources, including police, social services, and individuals.
- Some cases referred to the FMU had no overseas element, indicating forced marriages occurring entirely within the UK.
- Education guidance and curriculum updates aim to help school staff identify and respond to concerns about forced marriage.