ABSTRACT

This paper examines forced marriages in relation to religious identity and the protection of women’s fundamental rights, in light of the international and European regulatory framework and the most recent developments in Italian legislation and case law. The study explores the religious profiles that may encourage the continuation of these coercive practices, highlighting the significant risks to the personal and religious freedom of those involved, including cases of forced conversion and the difficulties in leaving non-consensual unions. It also highlights the role of faith communities and religious authorities as actors capable of promoting prevention, mediation and reform processes, with a view to integrating religious pluralism and the effective protection of human rights.