According to German law and German values, marriage is based on the free will of both spouses; it is therefore an expression of the free development of the personality, which is protected by Article 2 Paragraph 1 in conjunction with Article 1 of the Basic Law. in conjunction with Article 1 of the Basic Law.

If the bride, groom or both spouses are forced to marry, this is referred to as a forced marriage. Most of those affected are women and girls. It is often relatives who force their children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews to marry.

Forced marriage is illegal in Germany and has been punishable under Section 237 of the German Criminal Code since July 1, 2011. Anyone who forces another person to enter into a marriage is punished with a prison sentence of between 6 months and 5 years. The victim of a forced marriage is not liable to prosecution.

Special advice and protection services for women who are threatened or affected by forced marriage are offered by the specialist advice centers JADWIGA run by STOP dem Frauenhandel ökumenische gGmbH and the specialist advice centers of SOLWODI Bayern e.V..

In addition, the anonymous shelter "Scheherazade hilft" offers safe accommodation for young women between the ages of 18 and 21. This can be reached 24 hours a day on the free telephone number 0800/41 51 616.

Since March 2013, there has also been a nationwide help hotline for violence against women, which is also available free of charge 24 hours a day on 08000 116 016.

They are affected or threatened by forced marriage.

Contact an advice center or the youth welfare office. You will receive advice and support there and be informed about your legal options. The services also include psychosocial support and support in crisis situations.

In emergencies or if you are acutely threatened by violence, contact the police.

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