7\11\2019
In a statement by the Human Rights Commission, it described the act of deprivation of marriage practiced by some parents against their daughters as a crime against human rights and dignity and a violation of the right to form a family. It is a practice prohibited under all laws and regulations and the provisions of Islamic Sharia, and one that is considered a form of abuse criminalized under the Law of Protection from Abuse. The Commission is currently following up with the competent authorities to develop appropriate countermeasures that provide protection for the affected parties, help in resolving their cases and ensure that their situation is continuously monitored.
The Commission stressed that the laws of the Kingdom criminalize the deprivation of marriage, citing Article 39 of the Law of Procedure before Sharia Courts, which provided that a woman who has been deprived of marriage by her guardian shall have the right to file a lawsuit against them. The Commission called upon any woman suffering from such abuse to seek legal recourse to recover her legal and legitimate right, noting that the deprivation of marriage is a form of abuse, injustice and arbitrariness against women.
The Human Rights Commission remarked that these crimes indicate a lack of awareness on the topic and its humanitarian and social risks, and all concerned authorities should endeavour to raise awareness regarding the risks and penalties associated with the deprivation of marriage.