Kidnapped Brides

In parts of Africa, the Caucasus, and Central Asia, it is still common for a man to kidnap the woman he wants to make his bride and force her into marriage. The practice is especially widespread in rural Kyrgyzstan, despite a national law that bans it. Utah State University sociologist Erin Hofmann’s research suggests bride kidnapping may also contribute to Kyrgyzstan’s high rate of young women who leave the country for work—but also escape the risk of being forced into marriage through abduction. (Segment produced by Sydney Jezik)