Forced marriage is a prevalent issue in Kuwait that continues to affect individuals, especially women and girls, within the country. This practice, which involves individuals being coerced into marrying against their will, is a violation of human rights and goes against the principles of equality and autonomy.
In Kuwait, forced marriages can occur for a variety of reasons, including family pressure, societal expectations, and economic considerations. Women and girls are often the primary victims of forced marriages, as they may be seen as a burden on their families or as a means to strengthen familial relationships or social status.
Forced marriages can have serious consequences for those involved, including physical and emotional abuse, limited educational and economic opportunities, and a loss of autonomy and personal freedom. In some cases, individuals may be forced to marry someone they do not know or do not wish to marry, leading to a lifetime of unhappiness and unfulfilled potential.
Efforts to address forced marriage in Kuwait have been made in recent years, including legal reforms and awareness-raising campaigns. However, more work needs to be done to effectively combat this harmful practice and protect the rights of individuals at risk.
It is essential for individuals, communities, and governments to work together to raise awareness about the issue of forced marriage, provide support for those at risk, and hold perpetrators accountable for their actions. By promoting gender equality, autonomy, and respect for human rights, we can create a society in which forced marriage has no place and individuals are free to make their own choices about their lives and futures.
Nada Alahdal
A human rights activist to advocate for the issue of child marriage, and head of the
for the Protection of Girls
