Child Marriage: Understanding the Legalities in the UK

Today, we are going to discuss child marriage in the UK. Many people may be surprised to learn that child marriage is illegal in the United Kingdom. The legal age for marriage in the UK is 18, with parental consent required for those aged 16 and 17. This law is in place to protect children from being forced into marriage before they are old enough to understand the implications of such a commitment.

Child marriage is a form of child abuse and is recognized as such by the UK government. It is considered a violation of a child’s rights and can have serious consequences for their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Children who are forced into marriage may be at risk of domestic violence, sexual abuse, and exploitation.

There are organizations in the UK, such as the Forced Marriage Unit, that work to prevent and address issues related to child marriage. These organizations provide support and resources for individuals who are at risk of forced marriage or who have already been forced into a marriage.

It is important for everyone to be aware of the laws regarding child marriage in the UK and to speak out against this harmful practice. By raising awareness and working together, we can help protect children from being forced into marriage and ensure that they have the opportunity to live safe and healthy lives.

Nada Alahdal

Human right activist
Nada Foundation