Breznik and Pernik Students Learn About the Risks of Forced Marriages and Honor-Related Crimes

Pernik, Bulgaria: 13 March 2024 / Breznik, Bulgaria: 16 April 2024

Students from Breznik and Pernik participated in training sessions focused on the issue of forced marriages. These sessions were organized by the Regional Youth Center – Breznik, as part of the “Equal through Education” project founded by MARIO.

The young participants learned that forced marriage typically involves pressuring someone, often a woman, into a union against her will. This coercion may include physical violence, psychological pressure or other forms of manipulation. Such practices are often observed in cultures or communities where traditional norms and values place family honor above individual rights and freedoms.

Participants shared experiences of early marriages involving people close to them. Petrova, one of the students who attended the training, stated, “I believe early marriage carries risks. It is important for us, as underage girls, to have the chance to grow emotionally, pursue education, gain life experience, and only then make decisions about marriage. Otherwise, we limit ourselves and reduce our opportunities for professional and career development”.

During the training, the topic of honor-related crimes was also addressed. These practices involve threats or violence against family members (particularly women) who are perceived to have damaged family honor. They are common in cultures that strongly emphasize preserving family reputation. Honor-related crimes may include practices like honor killings, female genital mutilation, and forced marriage.