Arranged Marriage: A Tradition Under Scrutiny
TW: This article discusses topics related to forced marriage, child marriage, and domestic violence, which may be distressing to some readers.
Understanding Arranged Marriage
Arranged marriage is where families, rather than individuals, take the lead in selecting a spouse. It has been a longstanding tradition in many cultures and continues to spark debates about personal freedom, gender equality, and human rights. While arranged marriages differ from forced marriages—since they ideally involve the consent of both individuals—societal pressure, family expectations, and cultural norms can blur the line between choice and coercion.
Arranged marriages are often framed to maintain cultural traditions, strengthen family ties, and ensure compatibility based on shared values, religion, or social status. In some cultures, professional matchmakers, religious leaders, or online matrimonial websites play a role in the matchmaking process. However, critics argue that arranged marriages can reinforce gender inequality, limit individual autonomy, and, in some cases, lead to harmful practices such as child marriage.
Countries Where Arranged Marriages Are Common
Arranged marriages are legal and widely practiced in several countries across Asia, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. Some of the countries where this tradition remains prevalent include:
India: Despite modernization, arranged marriages continue to be the norm, with over 90% of marriages in India arranged by families. While some modern adaptations allow individuals to have a say, traditional matchmaking remains dominant. Parents often consider factors such as caste, religion, social status, and astrological compatibility before finalizing a match.
Pakistan: In Pakistan, arranged marriages are deeply rooted in cultural and religious traditions. Over 80% of marriages are arranged, and they are often influenced by family honor, economic considerations, and tribal or caste affiliations.
Bangladesh: In Bangladesh, arranged marriages are common, particularly in rural areas. Child marriage remains a concern, with 51% of Bangladeshi women married before the age of 18, according to UNICEF.
China: Although China has seen a shift towards love marriages, arranged marriages still occur, particularly in rural areas and among older generations. The practice of "marriage markets," where parents gather to find suitable partners for their children, is still prevalent in major cities like Shanghai and Beijing.
Saudi Arabia and Other Middle Eastern Countries: In Saudi Arabia, arranged marriages are a cultural and religious norm, with families often making marriage decisions based on tribal affiliations, financial status, and religious beliefs. While consent is increasingly emphasized, societal pressure still plays a significant role.
Africa: Countries such as Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Sudan have strong arranged marriage traditions, often tied to ethnic customs and economic factors. In some regions, bride price (dowry) is an essential component of marriage negotiations.
The Effects of Arranged Marriages
While some arranged marriages result in happy and stable unions, others can have significant negative consequences:
Positive Aspects:
Family Support and Stability: Arranged marriages often come with strong familial backing, which can provide a safety net for couples navigating marital challenges.
Shared Cultural and Religious Values: Many believe that arranged marriages promote harmony by ensuring compatibility in values and beliefs.
Lower Divorce Rates: Studies indicate that arranged marriages often have lower divorce rates than love marriages, though this may be due to social stigma rather than marital satisfaction.
Negative Aspects:
Gender Inequality: In many arranged marriages, particularly in patriarchal societies, women have less autonomy in choosing their partners.
Mental Health Impact: Individuals who feel pressured into arranged marriages may experience anxiety, depression, and a lack of personal fulfilment.
Child Marriages: In many countries, arranged marriages intersect with child marriage, leading to lifelong disadvantages for young brides, including limited education, increased health risks, and vulnerability to domestic violence.
Domestic Violence and Lack of Legal Protection: Some women in arranged marriages may face abuse but feel unable to leave due to family and societal pressures.
Lack of Compatibility: In some cases, arranged marriages prioritize family interests over personal compatibility, leading to strained relationships.
What Can Be Done?
While arranged marriage is deeply embedded in cultural traditions, efforts can be made to ensure individual choice and rights are upheld:
Raising Awareness: Educating communities on the importance of consent, personal choice, and gender equality in marriage decisions is crucial.
Strengthening Legal Protections: Governments should implement and enforce laws against forced marriage and child marriage. Countries with existing legal protections should ensure they are effectively enforced.
Empowering Women and Girls: Providing education and economic opportunities can help individuals make informed decisions about marriage and their future.
Encouraging Open Dialogue: Families and religious leaders should promote discussions that allow young people to express their preferences and concerns without fear of repercussions.
Supporting Victims: Organizations and support groups should offer assistance to those who feel trapped in an unwanted marriage. Shelters, helplines, and legal aid should be made accessible to those in need.
Promoting Voluntary Arranged Marriages: If arranged marriages are to continue as a cultural tradition, they must prioritize individual choice and mutual consent over family obligation.
Relevant Statistics
12 million girls are married before the age of 18 each year, according to the UN, with many of these marriages being arranged.
In India, a study found that only 5% of women in arranged marriages had met their spouse before engagement.
In Bangladesh, 51% of girls are married before the age of 18, despite legal prohibitions against child marriage.
In Pakistan, over 80% of marriages are arranged, with many influenced by family honour and economic considerations.
According to UNICEF, 650 million women alive today were married as children, many of them in arranged marriages.
In Ethiopia, nearly 40% of girls are married by age 18, limiting their educational and professional opportunities.
Conclusion
Arranged marriage is a complex issue with both cultural significance and human rights implications. While some individuals find happiness in arranged unions, others suffer from a lack of autonomy and choice. The key is to distinguish between consensual arranged marriages and those that involve coercion, ensuring that all individuals have the right to choose their life partners freely.
Through education, legal reform, and advocacy, we can work towards a future where marriage is based on mutual consent, respect, and individual freedom, regardless of cultural traditions. Supporting women's rights, enforcing laws against forced marriage, and providing safe spaces for individuals to make their own choices will help create a more just and equitable society.
TQ: Should cultural traditions be preserved even if they infringe upon individual rights? How can we balance cultural heritage with human rights protections?
