Over 300 forced marriage cases reported in UK in 2022
The latest UK government figures confirms the illegal practice of forced marriage remains a major concern.
The Forced Marriage Unit (FMU) gave advice and support for 302 cases related to a possible forced marriage during 2022.
The new data, released on 20 June 2023, revealed 297 cases of forced marriage and five of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) were reported.
These cases comprised:
88 (29 percent) involved victims aged 17 years and under
119 (39 percent) involved victims aged 18 to 25
62 (19 percent) involved victims with mental capacity concerns
235 (78 percent) involved female victims
67 (22 percent) involved male victims
The unit also responded to 545 general enquiries where no action was taken, which clearly highlights the severity and frequency of this grave issue.
The 302 cases reported during 2022 represents a 10 percent decrease on the number of cases (337) received in 2021.
However, we must remember forced marriage is a hidden crime.
These figures do not reflect the full scale of the abuse.
It is also important to note that in 2022 eight cases took place entirely within the UK.
While this is a slight decrease from the 11 cases recorded in 2021, it demonstrates the urgent need to overcome this issue domestically.
Universal Truth is committed to stamping out this exploitative practice
Universal Truth Founder, Nyla Khan, has first-hand, lived experience of forced marriage. Her life mission is to educate and support individuals, organisations, and society about this illegal abuse.
As well as providing a range of support for those affected by forced marriage (discover more here) Nyla has developed Diplomatic Dialogue workshops in response to the evident need for professionals to overcome race anxiety.
Delivered through workshops, it creates an open conversation based on compassion, curiosity, and evidence from lived experience. It encourages keeping an open mind about the impact on attitudes and stereotypes, and challenges assumptions around bias and race in a controlled, trusted space.
Addressing and resolving race anxiety through Diplomatic Dialogue will reduce the serious failures when it comes to convicting those guilty of forcing people into marriage.
This support package is for any organisation wanting to increase awareness and knowledge on the issue of forced marriage.
If you or anyone you know are at risk of being forced into a marriage, it’s important to seek help immediately.
The Forced Marriage Unit offers support to any individual within the UK regardless of nationality. They also provide support and advice to professionals.
0207 008 0151: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm
0207 008 1500: Global Response Centre (out of hours)
Email: FMU@fco.gov.uk
Discover more about forced marriage, the warning signs, and more by browsing our blogs.