What is forced marriage?

Sometimes parents, relatives or friends try to use pressure or even violence to enforce what they think is best.  They may accuse you of bringing shame on the family if you do not agree to marry or continue a marriage. No one asks you if it is your will to marry or which person you love. If one or both of the partners do not give their consent to a marriage, it is a forced marriage.

The free choice of a spouse is a human right. And yet, men and women are forced to marry against their will, whether it be on a holiday abroad or in Switzerland.

What can be done against forced marriage?

If you fear being married against your will, please contact a help centre or inform someone you trust about your situation and your fears.  The office for gender equality (in German) provides support regarding forced marriage - for sufferers and confidants. You can find further information in the brochure «Wer entscheidet, wen Du heiratest?» (in German). Defend yourself against an impending forced marriage and get help.