Across various cultures and societies globally, the tradition of arranged or coerced marriages has been deeply embedded for generations. While some view this practice as a way to maintain cultural heritage or uphold family honor, others see it as a fundamental violation of personal rights and freedoms. While some view it as a traditional practice meant to uphold family honor and continuity, others argue that it infringes on the fundamental rights of individuals. In the modern world, the idea of compelling someone to marry against their will is increasingly being recognized as outdated, unethical, and even harmful. Forcing a child into marriage is not only a violation of their personal freedom but also a breach of their emotional, psychological, and social well-being.
The Importance of Autonomy in Marriage
Deciding who to marry is among the most critical choices a person makes throughout their life. It is a commitment that requires trust, understanding, and emotional connection between two people. When parents force their child to marry someone they have not chosen, they strip away the child’s autonomy—their right to make decisions about their own life. Autonomy is essential for personal growth and self-determination, and when it is denied, it can lead to long-term negative consequences. People have different aspirations, dreams, and preferences. Every individual has their own concept of what constitutes happiness, love, and a fulfilling partnership. When parents impose their choices on their children, they disregard these personal desires, often leading to dissatisfaction, resentment, and emotional turmoil. The child may end up in a marriage that is not built on mutual respect or understanding, which can result in lifelong unhappiness.
Psychological Impact of Forced Marriage
Forced marriages often lead to severe psychological and emotional distress. When individuals are pressured into a marriage they do not want, they may feel trapped, helpless, and hopeless. The sense of being controlled by others can cause anxiety, depression, and a host of other mental health issues. The person might feel a profound sense of loss, not only because of the denial of their right to choose but also because of the loss of potential opportunities for personal and professional development. Moreover, forced marriages can create a power imbalance between partners, where one feels more like a victim than an equal participant. Such an imbalance frequently results in toxic dynamics, where one partner exerts dominance and control over the other. In cases where the forced marriage is also an arranged marriage, the child might be expected to conform to family expectations rather than their own needs, further perpetuating feelings of inadequacy and depression.
The Impact on the Institution of Marriage
Marriage should ideally be a partnership of equals, based on mutual love, respect, and understanding. When one party is coerced, this balance is disrupted. The very foundation of the marriage becomes shaky, often leading to mistrust, lack of communication, and emotional disconnect. Over time, such marriages may end in separation or divorce, which can have devastating effects not just on the couple but also on their children, families, and communities. Compelled marriages can also create a skewed perception of what marriage truly represents. When young people are forced into unions without their consent, they may develop negative attitudes toward marriage as an institution. This can lead to a cycle where future generations either avoid marriage altogether or continue the tradition of forced unions, perpetuating a harmful cycle.
The Legal and Human Rights Perspective
From a legal standpoint, forcing someone into marriage is a violation of basic human rights. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights clearly states that “marriage should only occur with the full and free consent of both individuals.” Pressuring a child into marriage against their will violates this core human right to personal choice and freedom. This coercion strips the child of their autonomy, reducing them to a means for fulfilling family or societal demands. Many countries around the world have recognized the injustice of forced marriages and have enacted laws to prevent them. Yet, these laws are not always enforced, and the practice continues in many regions. Parents who force their children into marriage are often driven by cultural or religious beliefs, societal pressures, or a desire to maintain family honor. However, these reasons cannot justify the infringement on an individual's basic human rights.
Cultural and Societal Factors
It is important to recognize that cultural traditions and societal norms play a significant role in the practice of forced marriages. In some communities, marriage is seen as a means to strengthen social, economic, or political ties between families. Parents may believe that they are acting in their child's best interest by choosing a suitable partner from a good family. However, this perspective overlooks the individuality of the child and their right to make their own choices. Culture should never be used as an excuse to violate human rights. Societies evolve, and cultural practices must adapt to new understandings of equality, autonomy, and human dignity. Encouraging dialogue and education about the harmful effects of forced marriage can help shift societal attitudes toward more respectful and consensual practices.
The Role of Parents in Supporting Their Children's Choices
Parents undeniably play a crucial role in their children's lives, offering guidance, support, and wisdom. However, their role should be to empower their children to make informed choices, not to make decisions for them. Parents should foster open communication, trust, and understanding with their children, encouraging them to express their own desires and preferences. Instead of pressuring their children into unwanted marriages, parents can help them by providing information, sharing their own experiences, and respecting their children’s choices. A supportive parent-child relationship is far more likely to result in a happy and successful marriage, based on mutual love and respect.
Conclusion
The decision to marry is a deeply personal one that should be made freely by the individuals involved. Forcing someone into marriage violates their autonomy, damages their psychological well-being, and undermines the foundation of a healthy, loving partnership. While parents may believe they are acting in their child's best interest, it is crucial to recognize that true support comes from allowing children to make their own choices. Marriage should be a union of equals, entered into with free will and mutual consent. Parents ought to trust their children to make the right decisions for themselves and support them in their journey toward finding happiness, love, and fulfillment on their own terms. Only then can we ensure a future where every marriage is a celebration of choice, respect, and true partnership.
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