Arranged Marriage vs. Forced Marriage

by Amanda Kloer

categories: Domestic Human Trafficking, Trafficking in Women

Published September 08, 2009 @ 01:00PM PT

Arranged marriage and forced marriage are both significant issues for many women around the world.  However, while these two forms of marriage may sometimes overlap and blur boundaries, it's important to understand the basic differences between them. Here is a quick guide to arranged marriage vs. forced marriage.

Arranged Marriage

An arranged marriage is one set up by some party other than the couple getting married.  This could be a parent or relative, a community leader, a website, or a professional matchmaker. Arranged marriages were the norm until the last couple hundred years, and they are still practiced in some cultures.  Proponents of arranged marriage claim it reduces divorce rates, prevents promiscuity, and creates a strong social order. They key factor present in an arranged marriage is the consent of both people getting married to be matched and married through a third party arrangement. 

Forced Marriage

Forced marriages are arranged, but without the consent of both parties --specifically, usually without the woman's consent. In a forced marriage, a woman can be matched by the means described above, or she can be sold or traded to her new husband for something of value. Forced marriage sometimes takes place between a child or young girl and an adult man. Victims of forced marriage may experience domestic violence, rape, abuse, neglect, and forced domestic servitude. Many countries consider forced marriage in which something of value is exchanged for the woman ( a dowry, fee, gift, etc.) a form of human trafficking.

When Arranged Marriage Become Forced 

While arranged and forced marriage are different issues, sometimes the distinction between them can blur.  For example, a woman might enter into an arranged marriage willingly, but want to leave because of domestic violence or other issues in the relationship.  If her community, family, or legal system prevents her from leaving the marriage, that marriage can be considered forced. The issue of consent is also tricky here.  Is a woman consenting to a marriage if she fears being socially ostracized for refusing it? Is she consenting if that marriage is the only way her family can survive financially? Marrying under those terms might meet a legal definition of consent, but it's certainly not an active choice on her part. 

It's important to understand both the distinctions between arranged and forced marriage and the fact that they sometimes overlap. While arranged marriages have brought happiness and stability to both couples and communities, forced marriages are by nature exploitative and unequal. Marriage with children too young to consent to marry cannnot be considered arranged and should be considered forced. As with most significant human rights issues, a good understanding of arranged and forced marriage is the first tool of advocacy.     

Photo credit: Scenes from an Indian Wedding by Madaboutasia