Ministry criticizes in 86 cases concerning recognition of marriages involving minors

The Ministry of Social Affairs and Housing (Social- og Boligministeriet) has concluded a supervisory investigation of Danish authorities’ practices in cases concerning recognition of foreign marriages where at least one party was under 18 years old at the time of the marriage. The investigation has led to criticism in 86 cases.

Since February 1, 2017, it has been prohibited for minors to enter into marriage in Denmark, and foreign marriages involving minors can only be recognized under special circumstances – for example, if there are compelling reasons, or if the parties are citizens of an EU or EEA country.

Nevertheless, the investigation shows that from 2017 up until the end of 2023, around 270 foreign marriages involving minors have been registered in the Danish Civil Registration System (CPR). The Ministry of Social Affairs and Housing has reviewed each case by obtaining information from relevant authorities.

In total, criticism is expressed in 86 cases. In the majority – 80 of the cases – it is assessed that the authorities have not shown sufficient attention to the question of the minors’ status. In the remaining six cases, the authorities have specifically assessed and recognized the marriages citing compelling reasons, but the ministry finds that the basis for this is insufficient.

Minister of Social Affairs and Housing, Sophie Hæstorp Andersen, states that it is deeply concerning that the rules have not been followed:
“The rules are there to protect children. I can hardly imagine anything more important. Therefore, it is deeply alarming that Danish authorities – in breach of the rules – have recognized foreign marriages involving minors.”

Based on this, the Ministry has decided to issue a new information circular to all relevant authorities clarifying the rules. Additionally, the authorities that have handled the relevant cases will receive separate letters with criticism and a recommendation to reconsider the legal and administrative handling of the cases.

The investigation has also revealed that some of the registrations were due to errors in data entry or involved marriages that can be lawfully recognized because the parties are from EU/EEA countries.

The supervisory investigation is part of a larger, independent investigation initiated in November 2024. It is conducted by VIVE and covers marriages involving minors from 1970 onwards. The results are expected to form the basis for political discussions on further measures to protect minors from forced marriages and ensure their rights.