The hidden reality of forced marriages in Catalonia
In Barcelona, an alarming situation is developing in silence: the forced marriages of young girls, a problem that, despite being illegal, persists in the shadows. Recently, a Pakistani association has expressed its concern about the inaction of the authorities, highlighting the double standards in which many families find themselves immersed.
Educators from the Raval raise their voices
A group of educators from the Raval have issued a warning about the alarming situation that many teenagers are living in. They have observed a disturbing pattern of family control that isolates girls when they reach adolescence, a mechanism that often precedes the imposition of marriage.
Forced marriages: a systematic problem
Although forced marriages are prohibited, the reality is that the authorities have registered nearly 200 cases over the last fifteen years, according to data provided by the Generalitat at the request of Vox. However, the cultural origin of these cases remains in the shadows to avoid stigmatization, a decision that has generated controversy.
Denying the magnitude of the problem
The reality is that the official figures do not reflect the severity of the situation. Huma Jamshed, a leading figure in the Association of Pakistani Women’s Cultural Educational and Social Operatives (Acesop), says her organization receives, on average, one new case every week. These girls seek help to avoid forced marriages, which often involve bribes from families.
A vicious circle of control
Forced marriages often begin with progressive social isolation. Families limit girls’ activities, inhibiting their interaction with other young people, making them more likely to accept the marriages that are imposed on them. This dynamic causes girls to become more obedient and less likely to resist.
The danger of rebellion
Cases of girls trying to escape their circumstances often end in tragedy. Jamshed recounts that the girls are sent to Pakistan, where they are extorted and deprived of their freedom. The consequences can be devastating, including honor killings, as happened to two sisters from Terrassa in 2022.
Institutional hypocrisy
Acesop has criticized the contradiction of the Catalan authorities, who seem to tolerate this violation of human rights in the name of cultural diversity. Jamshed highlights that there are women in positions of power who participate in exclusively male events, which is unacceptable in a society that should promote equality.
The path to the solution
Despite the challenges, organizations such as Xarxa del Raval and Dones de Sant Antoni are working to raise awareness about these issues. Jamshed stresses the need for greater institutional involvement to address the roots of the problem and eradicate this harmful practice.
Final thoughts
The issue of forced marriages in Barcelona is a disturbing reminder of the gender inequalities that persist even in modern societies. Awareness and collective action are essential to ensure that all girls can live free from fear and oppression.