UK Forced Marriage Referrals Reveal Cases Involving Children as Young as Five
More than 100 children aged 12 and under were referred to the UK government's Forced Marriage Unit (FMU) between 2021 and 2025, according to Home Office data obtained through a Freedom of Information request. Among these cases were 27 children aged five or younger, highlighting concerns about the vulnerability of minors to forced marriage practices.
Forced marriage is a criminal offence across the United Kingdom, and in England and Wales the legal age of marriage was raised from 16 to 18 in 2023. The FMU operates nationwide, providing support and guidance in cases of actual, suspected, or potential forced marriages. Referrals to the unit can come from various sources, including police, social services, schools, family members, friends, colleagues, or the individuals affected themselves.
The figures cover a five-year period from 2021 to 2025. Some yearly data was not disclosed due to the small number of cases, which could have led to the identification of those involved. However, the available information confirms that at least 100 children aged 12 or younger were referred during this period. Of these, 62 were aged 10 or below, while 27 were no older than five.
Campaigners have expressed concern that the number of cases could rise after schools reopen following the summer holidays, warning that some children may fail to return to education after being taken abroad or placed in situations involving forced marriage.
The Home Office clarified that a referral to the FMU does not necessarily mean a forced marriage has taken place or will occur. Rather, it indicates that information has been provided regarding an actual, potential, or suspected case, enabling authorities to assess risks and provide appropriate support where necessary.
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