Modern Human Rights – Is It Time to Accept Polygamous Marriages?

While the European Convention on Human Rights guarantees the right to marry, the legal recognition of multiple marriages remains contentious. The debate involves balancing individual autonomy with societal cohesion and concerns about potential harms such as gender inequality and exploitation. Despite recent reviews and consultations, there are no immediate plans for legal changes in the UK, but the recognition of foreign polyamorous relationships adds complexity to the discussion. Upholding human rights, gender equality, and individual autonomy while addressing potential imbalances and exploitation is central to the ongoing discourse.

The Istanbul Conventions Implementation in the UK vs Türkiye

The Istanbul Convention, a treaty aimed at preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence, has seen varying levels of success in different nations. The United Kingdom demonstrated commitment by ratifying the convention and implementing measures such as criminalising forced marriage and female genital mutilation. In contrast, Turkey’s full ratification stalled due to opposition from conservative groups, leaving many protections unenforced. The UK has made progress in data collection and victim support, while Turkey faces challenges in these areas. By learning from each other’s experiences, both countries can work towards creating safer and more equitable societies for women.