Stockholm, May 27, 2026 – The Europe Today: The parliament of Sweden has unanimously approved a new law banning marriages between cousins and other close relatives, in a move aimed at combating honor-related oppression, violence and coercion.
Under the new legislation, cousin marriages will be completely prohibited, while marriages between cousins conducted abroad will generally no longer be recognized in Sweden.
The law also prohibits marriages involving individuals directly related to the siblings of a prospective spouse, as well as marriages between half-siblings and adopted siblings.
Swedish authorities stated that the measure is intended to strengthen the protection of individual rights and prevent forced or pressured marriages linked to honor-based social practices.
Lawmakers emphasized that the legislation seeks to safeguard vulnerable individuals, particularly young people, from family or community pressure connected to marriage arrangements.
The new law is scheduled to enter into force on July 1, 2026.
