More than 100 children age 12 and under referred to UK forced-marriage unit, data show
Caroline MolloyAt least 100 children age 12 or younger were referred to the United Kingdom’s Forced Marriage Unit between 2021 and 2025, according to Home Office data obtained through a Freedom of Information request.
The figures include 27 children age five or younger and 62 children age 10 or younger. The Home Office declined to disclose the age of the youngest person referred, citing concerns that doing so could risk identification.
A referral does not necessarily mean that a forced marriage was confirmed. The unit receives information about actual, potential or suspected forced marriages and can be contacted by victims, relatives, police, social services, schools and other professionals.
Separate reporting on the data said nine referrals involving children age 12 or younger in 2022 had no overseas element, meaning the suspected or potential marriage was entirely within the United Kingdom.
Forcing someone to marry is a criminal offense across the UK. In England and Wales, the legal minimum age for marriage was raised from 16 to 18 in 2023.
Campaigners working with people at risk of forced marriage said the figures underscore the importance of safeguarding, early intervention and access to support for children and families.
