Minister Claudia Bauer warns young girls. The danger is high during holidays. Parents sometimes take girls abroad. There, they must marry against their will. This is called a forced marriage.
The family ministry made a new booklet. This is a small book with information. The book goes to schools with many problems. It explains rights to the girls. No one may force a girl to marry.
The book also warns about violence. Physical violence or mutilation are forbidden. Girls should look for warning signs. A sign is checking of the phone. Or parents hide details about a trip.
The minister gives important tips. Girls should look for a trusted person. They should hide important papers in a safe place. Saving emergency numbers in the phone helps too. Many places offer help.
Forced marriage is forbidden in Austria. People who force others go to prison. The law allows up to 5 years in prison. This applies to every type of wedding.
