Advancing Women's Rights in Marriage in Pakistan
The Legal Aid Society (LAS) based in Karachi, with the support of the United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF), is leading a crucial initiative titled "Promoting Women’s Rights in Marriage under Muslim Family Law in Pakistan." This project, running until 31 January 2025, aims to tackle major issues related to marriage practices in Sindh Province.
Early marriages for girls are still prevalent, and many marriages occur without a proper marriage contract (Nikahnama), despite legal requirements for marriage registrars to ensure these contracts are in place. This oversight leaves young women vulnerable, particularly regarding their rights and status within marriage. The situation is exacerbated when women face domestic violence or divorce, often lacking the necessary resources to support themselves.
To combat these challenges, LAS has implemented a comprehensive approach to ensure marriage contracts are properly documented. The organization works directly with women preparing for marriage, educating them on their rights and the benefits of having a marriage contract. Additionally, LAS engages paralegals to assist women in obtaining these contracts and provide legal advice if challenges arise.
A significant aspect of the project involves collaboration with marriage registrars, predominantly older men, to ensure that all marriages they register include the proper contractual documentation. LAS is also addressing policy issues, advocating for revisions to the marriage contract to better protect women's rights.
The project’s impact was highlighted at a side event during the 57th Human Rights Council on 25 September 2024. Associate Director Maliha Zia presented the project results, discussing the current landscape and the challenges in completing the marriage contract clauses. She emphasized the societal, physical, and financial vulnerabilities women face in marriage and the importance of this initiative in mitigating these issues.
