Latest items for DTCP-LAW-1
Aug. 20, 2026, 2:18 p.m.
Countries: Nigeria
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“Customary marriages are recognised in many countries such as Nigeria and South Sudan, and the registration of customary marriages is also increasingly widespread with registration possible in a number of countries including: Algeria, Botswana, Ethiopia, Kenya and South Africa” (9). Recognition and registration of Muslim, Hindu, and other religious marriages is legally provided for in many of the countries. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, while the Code of the Family recognises religious marriages, they do not have the same effect as a civil marriage. For countries like Nigeria, Sudan, and The Gambia, religious marriages, including Muslim and Christian marriages, are regulated by codified law, Sharia law, or Muslim personal...more
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“Customary marriages are recognised in many countries such as Nigeria and South Sudan, and the registration of customary marriages is also increasingly widespread with registration possible in a number of countries including: Algeria, Botswana, Ethiopia, Kenya and South Africa” (9). Recognition and registration of Muslim, Hindu, and other religious marriages is legally provided for in many of the countries. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, while the Code of the Family recognises religious marriages, they do not have the same effect as a civil marriage. For countries like Nigeria, Sudan, and The Gambia, religious marriages, including Muslim and Christian marriages, are regulated by codified law, Sharia law, or Muslim personal...more
Aug. 20, 2026, 2:17 p.m.
Countries: Senegal
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“In countries such as Cameroon, Egypt, Kenya, Senegal, South Sudan and Sudan, the laws allow for more than one marriage. Kenya’s laws emphasise that customary and Muslim marriages are presumed to be polygamous or potentially polygamous. In Sudan and Senegal, a man can have up to four wives” (12). “Nevertheless, despite these reforms and progressive provisions in the constitutions and statutory laws, women still inherit less than men due to the recognition of customary and religious laws in the context of matters of the family, among them being inheritance, even where it is against the constitution. This is the case in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, Senegal and The...more
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“In countries such as Cameroon, Egypt, Kenya, Senegal, South Sudan and Sudan, the laws allow for more than one marriage. Kenya’s laws emphasise that customary and Muslim marriages are presumed to be polygamous or potentially polygamous. In Sudan and Senegal, a man can have up to four wives” (12). “Nevertheless, despite these reforms and progressive provisions in the constitutions and statutory laws, women still inherit less than men due to the recognition of customary and religious laws in the context of matters of the family, among them being inheritance, even where it is against the constitution. This is the case in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, Senegal and The...more
Aug. 20, 2026, 2:15 p.m.
Countries: Algeria
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“Other countries, such as Algeria, Angola and Tunisia, while setting the legal age of marriage at 18, provide for exceptions either under civil or customary law, under certain conditions such as assessment of the aptitude of both parties, parental or legal representatives’ consent, public or family interest, pregnancy or permission from the Minister. These laws violate the best interest of the child; and are not in line with the Maputo Protocol that provides for prohibition of marriages under the age of 18 without exception” (9). “Customary marriages are recognised in many countries such as Nigeria and South Sudan, and the registration of customary marriages is also increasingly widespread with registration...more
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“Other countries, such as Algeria, Angola and Tunisia, while setting the legal age of marriage at 18, provide for exceptions either under civil or customary law, under certain conditions such as assessment of the aptitude of both parties, parental or legal representatives’ consent, public or family interest, pregnancy or permission from the Minister. These laws violate the best interest of the child; and are not in line with the Maputo Protocol that provides for prohibition of marriages under the age of 18 without exception” (9). “Customary marriages are recognised in many countries such as Nigeria and South Sudan, and the registration of customary marriages is also increasingly widespread with registration...more
Aug. 20, 2026, 2:13 p.m.
Countries: Burundi
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“In some countries such as Angola, despite it being unconstitutional, women are totally excluded from inheriting their deceased husband’s property and are sometimes even kicked out of the matrimonial home. In countries such as Burundi, there is no law regulating women’s succession rights. Customary law dictates the succession rights of women and in most instances they are discriminatory” (16). “(v) No statutory provisions for women’s succession rights: This affects women's inheritance on their family side and in the instance their husband passes on. Customary law dictates succession rights of women and in most instances it is discriminatory” (40).
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“In some countries such as Angola, despite it being unconstitutional, women are totally excluded from inheriting their deceased husband’s property and are sometimes even kicked out of the matrimonial home. In countries such as Burundi, there is no law regulating women’s succession rights. Customary law dictates the succession rights of women and in most instances they are discriminatory” (16). “(v) No statutory provisions for women’s succession rights: This affects women's inheritance on their family side and in the instance their husband passes on. Customary law dictates succession rights of women and in most instances it is discriminatory” (40).
Aug. 20, 2026, 2:11 p.m.
Countries: Tunisia
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“Tunisia’s Constitution provides that the country is an Islamist State but has progressive laws including prohibition of polygamy. While it is important to recognise religious laws, many of the provisions are discriminatory against women, and hence these countries need to align their constitutions with international standards on the protection of women” (8). “Other countries, such as Algeria, Angola and Tunisia, while setting the legal age of marriage at 18, provide for exceptions either under civil or customary law, under certain conditions such as assessment of the aptitude of both parties, parental or legal representatives’ consent, public or family interest, pregnancy or permission from the Minister. These laws violate the best...more
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“Tunisia’s Constitution provides that the country is an Islamist State but has progressive laws including prohibition of polygamy. While it is important to recognise religious laws, many of the provisions are discriminatory against women, and hence these countries need to align their constitutions with international standards on the protection of women” (8). “Other countries, such as Algeria, Angola and Tunisia, while setting the legal age of marriage at 18, provide for exceptions either under civil or customary law, under certain conditions such as assessment of the aptitude of both parties, parental or legal representatives’ consent, public or family interest, pregnancy or permission from the Minister. These laws violate the best...more
Aug. 20, 2026, 2:09 p.m.
Countries: Gambia
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
"In most countries studied for this Report, there are pluralistic legal systems where statutory laws live side by side with customary and religious laws. Some of them, such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique, South Sudan, and The Gambia, protect this legal pluralism through their constitutions. However, countries such as Kenya issue the caveat that these other systems are recognised as long as they are consistent with the Constitution. Countries such as Ethiopia have a plural legal system, religious and customary law is significantly constrained by legislative and constitutional provisions" (8). “Recognition and registration of Muslim, Hindu, and other religious marriages is legally provided for in many...more
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
"In most countries studied for this Report, there are pluralistic legal systems where statutory laws live side by side with customary and religious laws. Some of them, such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique, South Sudan, and The Gambia, protect this legal pluralism through their constitutions. However, countries such as Kenya issue the caveat that these other systems are recognised as long as they are consistent with the Constitution. Countries such as Ethiopia have a plural legal system, religious and customary law is significantly constrained by legislative and constitutional provisions" (8). “Recognition and registration of Muslim, Hindu, and other religious marriages is legally provided for in many...more
Aug. 20, 2026, 2:08 p.m.
Countries: Tanzania
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“Tanzania has historically enjoyed progressive family laws. The Law of Marriage Act, enacted in 1971,was the first piece of legislation in Commonwealth Africa to recognise a married woman's right to “acquire, hold and dispose of property”. The Act also dictates that when determining division of matrimonial property upon divorce, a court must consider each spouse’s contribution to the household. Unfortunately, courts have interpreted this provision to be limited to financial contribution, in spite of legal precedent recognising unpaid domestic labour and childcare as contributions to the household. This interpretation leaves women who are financially weaker than their spouses and burdened by unpaid labour vulnerable to financial destitution upon divorce” (79)....more
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“Tanzania has historically enjoyed progressive family laws. The Law of Marriage Act, enacted in 1971,was the first piece of legislation in Commonwealth Africa to recognise a married woman's right to “acquire, hold and dispose of property”. The Act also dictates that when determining division of matrimonial property upon divorce, a court must consider each spouse’s contribution to the household. Unfortunately, courts have interpreted this provision to be limited to financial contribution, in spite of legal precedent recognising unpaid domestic labour and childcare as contributions to the household. This interpretation leaves women who are financially weaker than their spouses and burdened by unpaid labour vulnerable to financial destitution upon divorce” (79)....more
Aug. 20, 2026, 2:08 p.m.
Countries: Sudan
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“Recognition and registration of Muslim, Hindu, and other religious marriages is legally provided for in many of the countries. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, while the Code of the Family recognises religious marriages, they do not have the same effect as a civil marriage. For countries like Nigeria, Sudan, and The Gambia, religious marriages, including Muslim and Christian marriages, are regulated by codified law, Sharia law, or Muslim personal law” (9). “In countries such as Cameroon, Egypt, Kenya, Senegal, South Sudan and Sudan, the laws allow for more than one marriage. Kenya’s laws emphasise that customary and Muslim marriages are presumed to be polygamous or potentially polygamous. In Sudan...more
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“Recognition and registration of Muslim, Hindu, and other religious marriages is legally provided for in many of the countries. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, while the Code of the Family recognises religious marriages, they do not have the same effect as a civil marriage. For countries like Nigeria, Sudan, and The Gambia, religious marriages, including Muslim and Christian marriages, are regulated by codified law, Sharia law, or Muslim personal law” (9). “In countries such as Cameroon, Egypt, Kenya, Senegal, South Sudan and Sudan, the laws allow for more than one marriage. Kenya’s laws emphasise that customary and Muslim marriages are presumed to be polygamous or potentially polygamous. In Sudan...more
Aug. 20, 2026, 2:07 p.m.
Countries: South Sudan
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
"In most countries studied for this Report, there are pluralistic legal systems where statutory laws live side by side with customary and religious laws. Some of them, such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique, South Sudan, and The Gambia, protect this legal pluralism through their constitutions. However, countries such as Kenya issue the caveat that these other systems are recognised as long as they are consistent with the Constitution. Countries such as Ethiopia have a plural legal system, religious and customary law is significantly constrained by legislative and constitutional provisions" (8). “South Sudan for instance, the Constitution obliges courts to apply customary law subject to the provisions...more
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
"In most countries studied for this Report, there are pluralistic legal systems where statutory laws live side by side with customary and religious laws. Some of them, such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique, South Sudan, and The Gambia, protect this legal pluralism through their constitutions. However, countries such as Kenya issue the caveat that these other systems are recognised as long as they are consistent with the Constitution. Countries such as Ethiopia have a plural legal system, religious and customary law is significantly constrained by legislative and constitutional provisions" (8). “South Sudan for instance, the Constitution obliges courts to apply customary law subject to the provisions...more
Aug. 20, 2026, 2:04 p.m.
Countries: South Africa
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“Customary marriages are recognised in many countries such as Nigeria and South Sudan, and the registration of customary marriages is also increasingly widespread with registration possible in a number of countries including: Algeria, Botswana, Ethiopia, Kenya and South Africa” (9). “However, in some countries like South Africa, while the statutory laws provide for monogamy, customary and religious laws still allow for polygamy. Another example is Côte d’Ivoire which abolished polygamy in 1964 while still recognizing the rights of those in polygamous marriages, and yet there are still polygamous marriages that occur in the country. In Mozambique, the prohibition of polygamy only applies to civil marriages, and to religious and traditional...more
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“Customary marriages are recognised in many countries such as Nigeria and South Sudan, and the registration of customary marriages is also increasingly widespread with registration possible in a number of countries including: Algeria, Botswana, Ethiopia, Kenya and South Africa” (9). “However, in some countries like South Africa, while the statutory laws provide for monogamy, customary and religious laws still allow for polygamy. Another example is Côte d’Ivoire which abolished polygamy in 1964 while still recognizing the rights of those in polygamous marriages, and yet there are still polygamous marriages that occur in the country. In Mozambique, the prohibition of polygamy only applies to civil marriages, and to religious and traditional...more
Aug. 20, 2026, 2:01 p.m.
Countries: Mozambique
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
"In most countries studied for this Report, there are pluralistic legal systems where statutory laws live side by side with customary and religious laws. Some of them, such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique, South Sudan, and The Gambia, protect this legal pluralism through their constitutions. However, countries such as Kenya issue the caveat that these other systems are recognised as long as they are consistent with the Constitution. Countries such as Ethiopia have a plural legal system, religious and customary law is significantly constrained by legislative and constitutional provisions" (8). “Countries like Angola, Malawi, and Mozambique protect women the most since they recognise marriage by reputation,...more
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
"In most countries studied for this Report, there are pluralistic legal systems where statutory laws live side by side with customary and religious laws. Some of them, such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique, South Sudan, and The Gambia, protect this legal pluralism through their constitutions. However, countries such as Kenya issue the caveat that these other systems are recognised as long as they are consistent with the Constitution. Countries such as Ethiopia have a plural legal system, religious and customary law is significantly constrained by legislative and constitutional provisions" (8). “Countries like Angola, Malawi, and Mozambique protect women the most since they recognise marriage by reputation,...more
Aug. 20, 2026, 1:59 p.m.
Countries: Malawi
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“Malawi offers a good example for addressing legal pluralism. The Marriage, Divorce and Family Relations Act 2015 consolidated previously fragmented legal regimes and advanced progressive legal reform. The Act recognises and regulates civil marriages, customary marriages, religious marriages, and marriage by reputation or permanent cohabitation, granting all unions equal legal status. The recognition of marriage by reputation or permanent cohabitation is of special import, and will protect many vulnerable women who do not have the protection of a formally concluded marriage” (8). “Countries like Angola, Malawi, and Mozambique protect women the most since they recognise marriage by reputation, cohabitation, or de facto marriages, in addition to customary and religious marriages....more
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“Malawi offers a good example for addressing legal pluralism. The Marriage, Divorce and Family Relations Act 2015 consolidated previously fragmented legal regimes and advanced progressive legal reform. The Act recognises and regulates civil marriages, customary marriages, religious marriages, and marriage by reputation or permanent cohabitation, granting all unions equal legal status. The recognition of marriage by reputation or permanent cohabitation is of special import, and will protect many vulnerable women who do not have the protection of a formally concluded marriage” (8). “Countries like Angola, Malawi, and Mozambique protect women the most since they recognise marriage by reputation, cohabitation, or de facto marriages, in addition to customary and religious marriages....more
Aug. 20, 2026, 1:58 p.m.
Countries: Kenya
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
"In most countries studied for this Report, there are pluralistic legal systems where statutory laws live side by side with customary and religious laws. Some of them, such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique, South Sudan, and The Gambia, protect this legal pluralism through their constitutions. However, countries such as Kenya issue the caveat that these other systems are recognised as long as they are consistent with the Constitution. Countries such as Ethiopia have a plural legal system, religious and customary law is significantly constrained by legislative and constitutional provisions" (8). “Customary marriages are recognised in many countries such as Nigeria and South Sudan, and the registration...more
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
"In most countries studied for this Report, there are pluralistic legal systems where statutory laws live side by side with customary and religious laws. Some of them, such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique, South Sudan, and The Gambia, protect this legal pluralism through their constitutions. However, countries such as Kenya issue the caveat that these other systems are recognised as long as they are consistent with the Constitution. Countries such as Ethiopia have a plural legal system, religious and customary law is significantly constrained by legislative and constitutional provisions" (8). “Customary marriages are recognised in many countries such as Nigeria and South Sudan, and the registration...more
Aug. 20, 2026, 1:57 p.m.
Countries: Ethiopia
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
"In most countries studied for this Report, there are pluralistic legal systems where statutory laws live side by side with customary and religious laws. Some of them, such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique, South Sudan, and The Gambia, protect this legal pluralism through their constitutions. However, countries such as Kenya issue the caveat that these other systems are recognised as long as they are consistent with the Constitution. Countries such as Ethiopia have a plural legal system, religious and customary law is significantly constrained by legislative and constitutional provisions" (8). "Customary marriages are recognised in many countries such as Nigeria and South Sudan, and the registration...more
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
"In most countries studied for this Report, there are pluralistic legal systems where statutory laws live side by side with customary and religious laws. Some of them, such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique, South Sudan, and The Gambia, protect this legal pluralism through their constitutions. However, countries such as Kenya issue the caveat that these other systems are recognised as long as they are consistent with the Constitution. Countries such as Ethiopia have a plural legal system, religious and customary law is significantly constrained by legislative and constitutional provisions" (8). "Customary marriages are recognised in many countries such as Nigeria and South Sudan, and the registration...more
Aug. 20, 2026, 1:56 p.m.
Countries: Egypt
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“Countries such as Egypt consider religious law in the form of Sharia as the principle source of legislation in their Constitution, and consider pluralism for Christians and Jews” (8). “In countries such as Cameroon, Egypt, Kenya, Senegal, South Sudan and Sudan, the laws allow for more than one marriage. Kenya’s laws emphasise that customary and Muslim marriages are presumed to be polygamous or potentially polygamous. In Sudan and Senegal, a man can have up to four wives” (12). “This is a progressive provision concerning the rights of women within the family in that it ensures equality between men and women, representation of women, protection against all forms of violence, and...more
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“Countries such as Egypt consider religious law in the form of Sharia as the principle source of legislation in their Constitution, and consider pluralism for Christians and Jews” (8). “In countries such as Cameroon, Egypt, Kenya, Senegal, South Sudan and Sudan, the laws allow for more than one marriage. Kenya’s laws emphasise that customary and Muslim marriages are presumed to be polygamous or potentially polygamous. In Sudan and Senegal, a man can have up to four wives” (12). “This is a progressive provision concerning the rights of women within the family in that it ensures equality between men and women, representation of women, protection against all forms of violence, and...more
Aug. 20, 2026, 1:55 p.m.
Countries: D R Congo
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
"In most countries studied for this Report, there are pluralistic legal systems where statutory laws live side by side with customary and religious laws. Some of them, such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique, South Sudan, and The Gambia, protect this legal pluralism through their constitutions. However, countries such as Kenya issue the caveat that these other systems are recognised as long as they are consistent with the Constitution. Countries such as Ethiopia have a plural legal system, religious and customary law is significantly constrained by legislative and constitutional provisions" (8). "Recognition and registration of Muslim, Hindu, and other religious marriages is legally provided for in many...more
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
"In most countries studied for this Report, there are pluralistic legal systems where statutory laws live side by side with customary and religious laws. Some of them, such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique, South Sudan, and The Gambia, protect this legal pluralism through their constitutions. However, countries such as Kenya issue the caveat that these other systems are recognised as long as they are consistent with the Constitution. Countries such as Ethiopia have a plural legal system, religious and customary law is significantly constrained by legislative and constitutional provisions" (8). "Recognition and registration of Muslim, Hindu, and other religious marriages is legally provided for in many...more
Aug. 20, 2026, 1:54 p.m.
Countries: Cote D'Ivoire
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“However, in some countries like South Africa, while the statutory laws provide for monogamy, customary and religious laws still allow for polygamy. Another example is Côte d’Ivoire which abolished polygamy in 1964 while still recognizing the rights of those in polygamous marriages, and yet there are still polygamous marriages that occur in the country. In Mozambique, the prohibition of polygamy only applies to civil marriages, and to religious and traditional marriages duly transcribed in the civil registry, and therefore leaves a void when it comes to women in religious and traditional marriages whose marriages are not registered with the civil registry” (12). “The Ivorian legal system is based on French...more
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“However, in some countries like South Africa, while the statutory laws provide for monogamy, customary and religious laws still allow for polygamy. Another example is Côte d’Ivoire which abolished polygamy in 1964 while still recognizing the rights of those in polygamous marriages, and yet there are still polygamous marriages that occur in the country. In Mozambique, the prohibition of polygamy only applies to civil marriages, and to religious and traditional marriages duly transcribed in the civil registry, and therefore leaves a void when it comes to women in religious and traditional marriages whose marriages are not registered with the civil registry” (12). “The Ivorian legal system is based on French...more
Aug. 20, 2026, 1:48 p.m.
Countries: Cameroon
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“Countries like Angola, Malawi, and Mozambique protect women the most since they recognise marriage by reputation, cohabitation, or de facto marriages, in addition to customary and religious marriages. The same applies for Cameroon and Egypt where marriages do not have to be registered to have legal effect” (9). “In countries such as Cameroon, Egypt, Kenya, Senegal, South Sudan and Sudan, the laws allow for more than one marriage. Kenya’s laws emphasise that customary and Muslim marriages are presumed to be polygamous or potentially polygamous. In Sudan and Senegal, a man can have up to four wives” (12). “Family law in Cameroon is governed by common statutory English law in the...more
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“Countries like Angola, Malawi, and Mozambique protect women the most since they recognise marriage by reputation, cohabitation, or de facto marriages, in addition to customary and religious marriages. The same applies for Cameroon and Egypt where marriages do not have to be registered to have legal effect” (9). “In countries such as Cameroon, Egypt, Kenya, Senegal, South Sudan and Sudan, the laws allow for more than one marriage. Kenya’s laws emphasise that customary and Muslim marriages are presumed to be polygamous or potentially polygamous. In Sudan and Senegal, a man can have up to four wives” (12). “Family law in Cameroon is governed by common statutory English law in the...more
Aug. 20, 2026, 1:46 p.m.
Countries: Botswana
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“Customary marriages are recognised in many countries such as Nigeria and South Sudan, and the registration of customary marriages is also increasingly widespread with registration possible in a number of countries including: Algeria, Botswana, Ethiopia, Kenya and South Africa” (9). “The Children’s Act 2009 has, besides conferring for the first time explicit rights on children, also contributed to the reform of family law in general. The Children’s Act prohibits forced marriages of children and the Marriage Act 2001 sets the minimum age of marriage at 18 years, without any exception. However, customary and religious marriages are excluded from the scope of the Marriage Act. Previously, the general rules were that...more
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“Customary marriages are recognised in many countries such as Nigeria and South Sudan, and the registration of customary marriages is also increasingly widespread with registration possible in a number of countries including: Algeria, Botswana, Ethiopia, Kenya and South Africa” (9). “The Children’s Act 2009 has, besides conferring for the first time explicit rights on children, also contributed to the reform of family law in general. The Children’s Act prohibits forced marriages of children and the Marriage Act 2001 sets the minimum age of marriage at 18 years, without any exception. However, customary and religious marriages are excluded from the scope of the Marriage Act. Previously, the general rules were that...more
Aug. 20, 2026, 1:44 p.m.
Countries: Angola
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“Other countries, such as Algeria, Angola and Tunisia, while setting the legal age of marriage at 18, provide for exceptions either under civil or customary law, under certain conditions such as assessment of the aptitude of both parties, parental or legal representatives’ consent, public or family interest, pregnancy or permission from the Minister. These laws violate the best interest of the child; and are not in line with the Maputo Protocol that provides for prohibition of marriages under the age of 18 without exception” (9). “Countries like Angola, Malawi, and Mozambique protect women the most since they recognise marriage by reputation, cohabitation, or de facto marriages, in addition to customary...more
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
“Other countries, such as Algeria, Angola and Tunisia, while setting the legal age of marriage at 18, provide for exceptions either under civil or customary law, under certain conditions such as assessment of the aptitude of both parties, parental or legal representatives’ consent, public or family interest, pregnancy or permission from the Minister. These laws violate the best interest of the child; and are not in line with the Maputo Protocol that provides for prohibition of marriages under the age of 18 without exception” (9). “Countries like Angola, Malawi, and Mozambique protect women the most since they recognise marriage by reputation, cohabitation, or de facto marriages, in addition to customary...more
Aug. 4, 2026, 6:36 p.m.
Countries: Afghanistan
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
"The Taliban’s new code [on judicial separation of spouses issued by the Taliban leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada] follows much of this older framework but makes several stark changes. It explicitly allows children to be given in marriage at any age. It also forces women whose husbands are missing to wait until they are presumed dead before they can be separated. Part of the code that addresses abusive or neglectful husbands allows a wife to petition the court if her husband is unjust or withholds financial support. But the same article states that judges and arbiters 'cannot, solely on the woman’s request and without the husband’s consent, grant divorce'" (para 20).more
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
"The Taliban’s new code [on judicial separation of spouses issued by the Taliban leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada] follows much of this older framework but makes several stark changes. It explicitly allows children to be given in marriage at any age. It also forces women whose husbands are missing to wait until they are presumed dead before they can be separated. Part of the code that addresses abusive or neglectful husbands allows a wife to petition the court if her husband is unjust or withholds financial support. But the same article states that judges and arbiters 'cannot, solely on the woman’s request and without the husband’s consent, grant divorce'" (para 20).more
June 23, 2026, 8:13 p.m.
Countries: Afghanistan
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
"However, the contradiction [of an Afghan man reporting DV] lies in that a woman must remain fully covered while simultaneously proving her injuries to a judge. She is also required to be accompanied by a male chaperone, which is usually the husband himself" (para 26-27).
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
"However, the contradiction [of an Afghan man reporting DV] lies in that a woman must remain fully covered while simultaneously proving her injuries to a judge. She is also required to be accompanied by a male chaperone, which is usually the husband himself" (para 26-27).
June 16, 2026, 5:43 p.m.
Countries: Iraq
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
"Although Iraqi law does not directly mention the phrase 'honour' killing, there are mitigating excuses in law that address the crime of killing motivated by honour. Someone killing his wife or close female relative after finding her in an act of adultery shall be punished by imprisonment for a period not exceeding three years. In many cases, the crime is not viewed as a deliberate, fully constituted murder, but rather as a family incident that got out of control" (para 13).
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
"Although Iraqi law does not directly mention the phrase 'honour' killing, there are mitigating excuses in law that address the crime of killing motivated by honour. Someone killing his wife or close female relative after finding her in an act of adultery shall be punished by imprisonment for a period not exceeding three years. In many cases, the crime is not viewed as a deliberate, fully constituted murder, but rather as a family incident that got out of control" (para 13).
June 15, 2026, 4:01 p.m.
Countries: Afghanistan
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
"During the interrogation, a militant questioned why she [Zuleikha, Afghan woman who was kidnapped and raped by the Taliban forces] hadn’t observed the Taliban’s mandatory hijab. He then whipped out a blade, cut her hair, and handed the strands back to her" (para 35-36).
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
"During the interrogation, a militant questioned why she [Zuleikha, Afghan woman who was kidnapped and raped by the Taliban forces] hadn’t observed the Taliban’s mandatory hijab. He then whipped out a blade, cut her hair, and handed the strands back to her" (para 35-36).
May 23, 2026, 6:18 p.m.
Countries: Afghanistan
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
"There is no ban on child marriage in Afghanistan under the Taliban, but a new law on divorce approved last week appears to suggest that a girl who later says she was married against her will would not be permitted a divorce if her husband disagrees. The new law [on child marriage] also appears to suggest that a woman cannot divorce her husband solely on the grounds of his absence or failure to provide financial support" (para 4-5). "The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) also expressed concern over the legislation. 'The decree, which codifies principles governing the separation of spouses, represents another step in the erosion of Afghan women...more
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
"There is no ban on child marriage in Afghanistan under the Taliban, but a new law on divorce approved last week appears to suggest that a girl who later says she was married against her will would not be permitted a divorce if her husband disagrees. The new law [on child marriage] also appears to suggest that a woman cannot divorce her husband solely on the grounds of his absence or failure to provide financial support" (para 4-5). "The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) also expressed concern over the legislation. 'The decree, which codifies principles governing the separation of spouses, represents another step in the erosion of Afghan women...more
April 24, 2026, 6:02 a.m.
Countries: Iraq
Variables: MARR-LAW-1, DTCP-LAW-1
"This terrible change [of reduced legal age of marriage for Iraqi girls due to the more authority given to Islaic courts] took place last year, when Iraq’s parliament increased the authority of Islamic courts over all family matters, including marriage – the minimum age for which was previously set at 18 – divorce and inheritance. Under the Jaafari school of Islamic law followed by many religious authorities in my [Iraqi female narrator] country, this could mean nine-year-old girls being given away to men decades older" (para 6-7).
Variables: MARR-LAW-1, DTCP-LAW-1
"This terrible change [of reduced legal age of marriage for Iraqi girls due to the more authority given to Islaic courts] took place last year, when Iraq’s parliament increased the authority of Islamic courts over all family matters, including marriage – the minimum age for which was previously set at 18 – divorce and inheritance. Under the Jaafari school of Islamic law followed by many religious authorities in my [Iraqi female narrator] country, this could mean nine-year-old girls being given away to men decades older" (para 6-7).
April 14, 2026, 2:38 p.m.
Countries: Afghanistan
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
"As the new law tells us: ‘Whenever an adult woman leaves her home out of necessity, she is obliged to conceal her voice, face and body.’ Those who do disobey risk being fined if they are ‘lucky’ – and flogged or jailed if they aren’t. It is why the internet is the only way left for us to communicate, the -predominant emotion among Afghan women young and old is fear and despair" (para 10-11). "Earlier this year, the Taliban also announced the reintroduction of the public flogging and stoning of women for adultery, and they are only too aware that as a man’s word is prized over that of any...more
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
"As the new law tells us: ‘Whenever an adult woman leaves her home out of necessity, she is obliged to conceal her voice, face and body.’ Those who do disobey risk being fined if they are ‘lucky’ – and flogged or jailed if they aren’t. It is why the internet is the only way left for us to communicate, the -predominant emotion among Afghan women young and old is fear and despair" (para 10-11). "Earlier this year, the Taliban also announced the reintroduction of the public flogging and stoning of women for adultery, and they are only too aware that as a man’s word is prized over that of any...more
March 13, 2026, 1:24 p.m.
Countries: Japan
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
"calls for changes to succession laws to allow female members of the imperial household – which has few male heirs – to become reigning empresses" (Para 9).
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
"calls for changes to succession laws to allow female members of the imperial household – which has few male heirs – to become reigning empresses" (Para 9).
March 9, 2026, 4:17 p.m.
Countries: China
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
The following information indicates that village-level customary governance bodies are permitted to determine legal membership and land entitlements and apply these rules in a manner that treats women differently from men, denying women equal rights to property and benefits upon marriage outside the village (MR-CODER COMMENT). "On paper, the women’s legal chances look good. Scholarly analyses have found that many court rulings in these cases favor married-out women. But those are the cases that make it to court, not those that judges throw out or officials force into out-of-court mediation. And villages often refuse to recognize rulings against them — as was the case for several of the Guangdong women"...more
Variables: DTCP-LAW-1
The following information indicates that village-level customary governance bodies are permitted to determine legal membership and land entitlements and apply these rules in a manner that treats women differently from men, denying women equal rights to property and benefits upon marriage outside the village (MR-CODER COMMENT). "On paper, the women’s legal chances look good. Scholarly analyses have found that many court rulings in these cases favor married-out women. But those are the cases that make it to court, not those that judges throw out or officials force into out-of-court mediation. And villages often refuse to recognize rulings against them — as was the case for several of the Guangdong women"...more
March 9, 2026, 2:06 p.m.
Countries: Iraq
Variables: AOM-LAW-1, DTCP-LAW-1
"In January, Iraq passed an amendment to its personal status law, which allows citizens to choose sect-specific religious courts to oversee their marriage affairs. This came after years of lobbying from Shia political parties to opt out of Iraq’s civil law, which has legally protected against underage marriage since the 1950s" (para 3). "The state has now introduced Ja’fari law, an 8th-century religious jurisprudence specifically for Shias, who are the religious majority in southern Iraq. A judge can permit child marriage based on perceived 'maturity and physical capacity', and while Iraqi legislation sets the minimum age for marriage to 15 years old, the widely contested Ja’fari teachings allow girls to...more
Variables: AOM-LAW-1, DTCP-LAW-1
"In January, Iraq passed an amendment to its personal status law, which allows citizens to choose sect-specific religious courts to oversee their marriage affairs. This came after years of lobbying from Shia political parties to opt out of Iraq’s civil law, which has legally protected against underage marriage since the 1950s" (para 3). "The state has now introduced Ja’fari law, an 8th-century religious jurisprudence specifically for Shias, who are the religious majority in southern Iraq. A judge can permit child marriage based on perceived 'maturity and physical capacity', and while Iraqi legislation sets the minimum age for marriage to 15 years old, the widely contested Ja’fari teachings allow girls to...more