Cousin marriages to be banned from July 1

The ban is seen by the government as important in combating honor killings. "For women, cousin marriage often means stricter control and demands for virginity," write Minister of Justice Gunnar Strömmer (M) and other representatives of the Tidö parties in a debate article in Aftonbladet.

They also point out that cousin marriages are used to consolidate the power of networks and create strong honor structures.

It is also proposed that other marriages between close relatives be prohibited and, as a general rule, cousin marriages entered into abroad should not be recognized in Sweden.

However, marriages that have already been registered in Sweden before the new law comes into force will continue to apply.