Cousin marriages have been a controversial topic in the UK for many years. While it is legal to marry your cousin in the UK, there are several concerns about the practice that need to be addressed. 

According to a report, cousin marriages account for up to 31% of birth defects in children born to Pakistani parents living in Britain. This is a significant number and highlights the potential risks associated with cousin marriages.

Furthermore, research has shown that cousin marriages can lead to an increased risk of genetic disorders and disabilities such as deafness and blindness. This can put a significant strain on families and healthcare systems.

While some argue that banning cousin marriages would infringe on personal freedom and cultural traditions, it is important to prioritize public health and safety above all else. In fact, many countries including France, Germany, and Australia have already banned or restricted cousin marriage due to these concerns.

Therefore, we call upon the UK government to take action on this issue by implementing legislation that prohibits cousin marriages within the country. It is time for us as a society to prioritise public health over cultural traditions.

Join The Asian Connect in its campaign to stop cousin marriages once and for all by signing this petition.

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