Authors: David W. Lawson, Rachel Lynes, Addison Morris, Susan B. Schaffnit

Published: September 23, 2020

This study examined what the public in the United States knows about the issue of child marriage, both worldwide and within the U.S. itself. Researchers discovered significant misconceptions on both fronts, including a widespread and incorrect belief that child marriage was illegal in all 50 states. Read more.

During this webinar, the Forced Marriage Initiative provides tips for hotline advocates who encounter cases of forced marriage in their work.

Forced marriage is a significant, yet hidden problem in the United States that impacts individuals of every socioeconomic status, ethnic, religious and cultural background. More often than not, forced marriage is just one part of a spectrum of other harms that an individual who is forced to marry may face in their lifetime. In fact, forced marriage can often lurk behind the issues that first present themselves including mental health concerns, physical and psychological abuse, sexual assault and rape. Advocates at the National, State, and Local Hotline level are on the front lines of victim response and can often be the first point of contact for individuals at risk and survivors of forced marriage seeking assistance and support.

Author: Forced Marriage Initiative

Publication: November, 2019

This brochure, now available in French, provides an overview of forced marriage in the United States, basic safety tips for survivors, and the services offered by the Forced Marriage Initiative at Tahirih Justice Center.

Author: Forced Marriage Initiative

Publication: November, 2019

This brochure, now available in Spanish, provides an overview of forced marriage in the United States, basic safety tips for survivors, and the services offered by the Forced Marriage Initiative at Tahirih Justice Center.

Author: Laura Vidal

Publication: 2019

Forced marriage expert Laura Vidal examines Australia’s response to forced marriage, and makes recommendations for alternative approaches to the issue. She highlights opportunities within existing domestic and family violence law and policy to prevent and respond to individuals impacted by forced marriage, and identifies possibilities for moving the Australian response away from a singular criminal justice lens and toward a more holistic response.