Three men were arrested in Perth, Australia, for allegedly forcing two teenagers into marriage. The teenagers, aged between 13 and 17, wanted to date each other, but their families insisted they get married due to cultural reasons. The men organized a religious ceremony in Alexander Heights for the forced marriage.
This incident marks the first time Australian Federal Police officers have pressed charges against individuals in Western Australia for arranging a forced marriage. The suspects, who cannot be named, appeared in court and were granted bail. They are scheduled to return to court next month for further proceedings.
Forced marriage is defined as a situation where a person enters into marriage without their full and free consent, often due to coercion, threats, or deception. It can also happen when individuals are incapable of understanding the implications of a marriage ceremony due to factors like age or mental capacity.
Detective Superintendent Peter Chwal emphasized that forced marriage is a serious crime that can involve victims and perpetrators within the same family. The AFP’s primary concern is the safety and well-being of those affected by forced marriages. They aim to raise awareness about the laws surrounding forced marriage in Australia and provide support to victims through various services and agencies.
Forced marriage has been illegal in Australia since 2013 and applies to all types of marriages, including those recognized by law, cultural or religious ceremonies, and marriages that take place both in Australia and overseas. Signs of forced marriage can include a person being closely monitored or controlled by family members, having limited autonomy over their life decisions, and expressing concerns about early marriage or violence.
Superintendent Chwal highlighted that forced marriage can impact individuals from any cultural background, religion, gender, or sexual orientation. It is a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach to prevention and intervention. By educating the public about the warning signs of forced marriage and providing support to victims, law enforcement agencies like the AFP aim to combat this harmful practice and ensure the safety of those at risk.
If you suspect someone is being forced into a marriage or if you are a victim yourself, it is essential to seek help and support. Remember that forced marriage is a crime, and there are resources available to assist you in protecting your rights and well-being.
