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Forced Marriage
If you or someone you know is marrying against their will, this is a “forced marriage.” Sometimes family members will threaten or use force to make someone consent to marriage. This issue does not just affect female victims; research suggests that 15 percent of the cases involve male victims.
We view forced marriage as a human rights abuse and in the case of minors, a form of child abuse. If you are a U.S. citizen and the victim of a forced marriage overseas, you can:
- contact the closest U.S. embassy or consulate or call our Overseas Citizens Services office in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (from outside the United States and Canada, call 202-501-4444).
- Check the “Special Circumstances” section of our country specific information for further information and possible resources.
The following organizations are not affiliated with the U.S. Department of State, but offer assistance to victims of forced marriage both in the United States and abroad.
DISCLAIMER: The U.S. Department of State assumes no responsibility for the professional ability or integrity of the organizations whose names appear above. This referral does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation of the U.S. Department of State.
Travel Alerts & Warnings
Alerts & Warnings
- Worldwide CautionSeptember 9, 2016
- Honduras Travel WarningJanuary 23, 2017
- Kenya Travel WarningJanuary 13, 2017
- Somalia Travel WarningJanuary 11, 2017
- The Gambia Travel WarningJanuary 7, 2017
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Traveler's Tip
Take precautions to avoid being a target of crime: Do not wear conspicuous clothing or jewelry and do not carry excessive amounts of money. Do not leave unattended luggage in public areas or accept packages from strangers.