A British woman has come forward with a harrowing account of being forced into marrying her own cousin as a child, exposing a practice she describes as a form of "modern slavery" hidden within some UK communities.
Speaking exclusively to The Mirror, the woman, who wishes to remain anonymous, revealed she was just 14 years old when her family coerced her into the union. She was told the marriage was her "duty" and was subjected to immense pressure, emotional blackmail, and threats to comply.
The psychological and physical toll has been profound and long-lasting. She describes suffering from severe depression, anxiety, and a deep sense of betrayal that has impacted her entire adult life. Her story sheds a stark light on the hidden world of forced marriages, which often go unreported due to fear, family loyalty, and cultural pressures.
A Life of Control and Coercion
Her narrative details a childhood stripped of choice. The decision was presented not as a question but as an obligation she could not refuse. She was made to feel that rejecting the marriage would bring shame and dishonour upon her entire family, a burden no child should ever have to bear.
This case highlights a critical issue within the UK, where an estimated thousands of young people, predominantly girls, are at risk of forced marriage each year. Despite being illegal since 2014, activists argue the law is not always effectively enforced and many cases remain in the shadows.
Calling for Change and Awareness
The brave survivor is now using her voice to call for greater awareness, better education, and more robust support systems for potential victims. She urges schools, GPs, and social services to be more vigilant to the signs of coercion and to provide safe avenues for young people to seek help.
Her powerful testimony is a urgent reminder that forced marriage is not a cultural tradition but a serious abuse of human rights happening on British soil. It is a call to action for authorities and communities to work together to protect vulnerable children from this devastating practice.
