Deputy PM kicks off campaign against forced marriage

Minister Lodewijk Asscher of Social Affairs has launched a campaign to help young people who are the victim or are at risk of forced marriage. The estimated number of forced marriages in the Netherlands per year is in the hundreds. The figures are hard to pin down as this problem most often happens in closed communities. Young people between the ages of 16 and 25 years and with a non-western background are especially vulnerable to forced marriage. This campaign is conducted online. Banners and a video will direct victims to the website trouwentegenjewil.nl, where people can find information, help and advice about forced marriages. People concerned about a friend or family member that might be forced to get married, can also contact professionals through the website. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V3y7UaU36fs&feature=youtu.be "One of the most important values of our country is the fundamental right to decide who you love and who you marry. Culture, religion or tradition is never an argument to force someone into marriage or to limit his or her freedom in any way." Minister Asscher said.