In England and Wales, a law raising the minimum age for marriage from 16 to 18 went into effect on 27 February. The initiative is designed to protect young girls from forced marriage, after a press release area UK government.
“As the legal age of marriage has risen to 18 in England and Wales, vulnerable children in England and Wales will be better protected from the harmful effects of forced marriage,” the statement said.
The text states that this change in legislation should put an end to forced marriages that cause irreparable harm to the child. The movement is also part of the government’s commitment to combat violence against women and girls.
The Government noted that previously forced marriage was considered a crime only if any form of coercion was used. Now the ban applies to all marriages, whether they are registered or unofficial ceremonies.
Those who arrange child marriages now face up to seven years in prison.
The statement also states that the minimum age for marriage with parental leave in Scotland and Northern Ireland is still 16.
The legal age of marriage in Russia is currently 18, but marriage is possible from 16 if there are certain reasons.
Earlier, the World Health Organization published a report in which it tracked it every two minutes around the world. It is possible woman during childbirth or pregnancy.