Domestic violence and early marriage continue to remain a problem even in 2022 in Albania. The most recent case is the story of a minor, identified as Anjeza. After about 1 year in 'freedom', Anjeza has decided to tell the story of her life for Vizion Plus.
Since the age of 9, Anjeza was forced by her family to marry a man about 15 years older. Under pressure, physical and psychological violence, Anjeza lived with him and his family for three consecutive years. The minor says that the marriage started against her will and continued like that until the last day.
Although with excellent results in lessons, Anjeza was removed from school in the 9th grade.
"They married me with difficulty, and it was a marriage against my will, with the bridegroom from a relative of mine. First we talked on the phone, then on the first day of the meeting I went to his apartment. He took me from the beginning."
Anjeza says that at first she was very well received by her husband's family, but the happiness lasted no more than two months.
During the three difficult years, the young woman did not even have the support of her family. She says that the family members saw it as normal to stay in a violent and unwanted coexistence. Even, in the mentality of their tribe, girls should have been married before reaching the age of 17.
When the violence and pressure became unbearable, about a year ago, Anjeza decided to leave the apartment through a report to the Police. Her desire is to live away from Albania and study nursing.
"Life is too short" - says Anjeza at the end of the interview.