England and Wales raise the age of marriage from 16 to 18
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The minimum age for marriage in England and Wales has been raised from 16 to 18. The law, which has entered into force, is designed to protect young girls from forced marriages.
A press release on the website of the British government notes: from now on, the exploitation of socially vulnerable children by organizing their marriage is illegal. Moreover, the organization of such marriages becomes a criminal offense under any circumstances. “Regardless of whether it was violent or not,” the message emphasizes. Persons found guilty of organizing child marriages now face up to 7 years in prison.
Previously, marriage was considered a crime only when some kind of coercion was used, such as threats.
Now, with the entry into force of the law, even with the consent of the parents, 16-17-year-olds will not be allowed to get married.
Meanwhile, in Scotland and Northern Ireland, the minimum age for marriage remains 16 with parental consent.
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