Forced Marriage of Teenagers in Australia
Three men in Australia have been accused of forcing two teenagers into marriage against their will for cultural reasons. The incident took place in Perth, where the men allegedly arranged a wedding ceremony for the teenagers, aged between 13 and 17, who wanted to date each other.
Legal Actions and Definitions
The case has been brought before the Perth Magistrates Court, marking the first time charges of forced marriage have been laid against a West Australian. According to Australian Federal Police Detective Superintendent Peter Chwal, forced marriage occurs when an individual is coerced, threatened, or deceived into marriage without their full consent. It could also involve minors who are unable to comprehend the implications of marriage due to their age or mental capacity.
Prevention and Awareness
The AFP is committed to preventing and addressing forced marriage by raising awareness about the issue and providing support to victims. Forced marriage is not exclusive to any particular cultural, religious, or racial group, and anyone can be a victim, regardless of age, gender, or sexual orientation. Signs of forced marriage include control over personal choices, limited education opportunities, and restricted communication. It is essential to recognize these signs and support individuals at risk to prevent such occurrences.
