Forced marriage and female cutting (circumcision)

If a person marries another under pressure from the family and against the person's own will, this is called forced marriage. The marriage may be declared invalid. People also have the freedom to choose whether they want to stay in a marriage or separate. If a person stays in a marriage against that person's will, it is also called a forced marriage.

Examples of forcing are: threats, blackmail, psychological pressure or physical violence.

Forced marriages are prohibited in Switzerland.

The national specialist unit zwangsheirat.ch provides confidential advice free of charge to victims and professionals: helpline on 0800 800 007 or email info@zwangsheirat.ch

In female cutting (circumcision), the female genitals are cut. There are different forms and practices. Circumcised girls and women often suffer health and psychological consequences of circumcision.

Female cutting (circumcision) is prohibited. Parents are also liable to prosecution if they organise the cutting (circumcision) of their child outside Switzerland.

The Network against Female Genital Cutting (Netzwerk gegen Mädchenbeschneidung) provides information and networks with key persons. Caritas Switzerland advises affected families free of charge and confidentially: 042 419 23 55 / beratung@maedchenbeschneidung.ch

Victim support advice centres (Opferhilfe-Beratungsstellen) can also provide support.