Increasing Divorce Rate in Pakistan

The family is the most important institution, and it is never static, but always dynamic, and it is responsible for human development through conjugal relationships. It is possible if marriages remain intact, but marriage rates have fallen, divorce rates have increased, and the distinguishing characteristics of marriage have changed in recent decades. Divorce is on the rise all over the world, and it’s only getting worse. The future of the family organization is in jeopardy in this case. Belgium has a 70% divorce rate, as do Portugal, Luxembourg, and the Czech Republic. It is 60 percent in the Czech Republic and Hungary, and 60 percent in the United States of America (which has been calculated to have the world’s sixth highest divorce rate). Chile, with a divorce rate of 3%, has the lowest divorce rate in the world.

Extramarital affairs, financial conflicts, a lack of communication, excessive argument, weight gain, unreasonable expectations, unwanted sexual harassment, a lack of affection and equality, and a lack of preparation for marriage are only a few of the major causes of divorce around the world. As we know from Islamic doctrines, Islam strives to protect family at all costs. As a result, the rate of divorce in Islamic countries is significantly lower than in non-Islamic countries around the world. In Pakistan, the trend of Khula (a right granted by Islam to women to divorce if they are unhappy in their marriage) is on the rise.

According to data, 13,299 Khula cases were registered in Pakistan’s Punjab Province in 2012. In 2013, the number of Khula cases increased to 14, 243, and in 2014, the number of Khula cases increased to 16, 942. In 2016, there were 18,901 cases registered. It demonstrates that the divorce rate in Pakistan is increasing.

Short temperament, lack of tolerance and confidence, joint family structure, forced marriages, disparities in social status, extramarital affairs, and the husband’s second marriage are some of the major reasons for divorce in Pakistani society. Separation is a concept that is far removed from what Islam teaches us about it in our society. Separation is something Allah despises, according to the Quran. Separation, according to Islam, is not a sign of revenge or scorn, as it has been in our society. The long-term effects of divorce, particularly on a woman, are devastating. Separation is often blamed on the lady, and even in the West, the lady is held responsible for the failure of a marriage. Being a divorced woman is a social embarrassment that affects women in all walks of life. This makes leading to a respectful and respectful life a difficult job. The authority of children after a divorce is also a touchy topic.

Reasons behind increasing divorce rate in Pakistan

Marriage is regarded as holy in Pakistan due to the teachings of our faith, Islam. Divorce is strictly forbidden in Islam, and Muslims are encouraged to find ways to restore this pious relationship between husband and wife. Nonetheless, the rising divorce rate in Pakistan is a source of great concern. Researchers have identified a number of factors that increase the likelihood of divorce over time like marrying young, having a low education and income, living together before committing to marriage, having a premarital pregnancy, having no religious affiliation, coming from a separated family, and feeling insecure are all factors.

According to a report, the number of divorces in Pakistan has surpassed the number of matrimonial love affairs. However, a segment of the population believes that high standards from both sides contribute to love marriages breaking up. At the same time, some people believe that arranged marriages are grounds for annulment in our country. Simultaneously, some argue that in our culture, arranged marriages are grounds for annulment of this sacred union.

One of the leading causes of divorce in Pakistani society is long-term family violence and men’s excessive dominance over women. Women are treated as dummies, incapable of any thoughts or emotions, and are expected to follow the rules set by their male counterparts. This leads to physical, verbal, and mental abuse, forcing the victimized woman to seek severance or, in the worst-case scenario, divorce.

Economic indiscretion and financial circumstances also play a licentious part in divorce. In our country, the male member of the family is usually the sole wage earner. This, combined with the financial strain of a larger family, contributes to the family’s declining financial situation, making it difficult to satisfy the wife’s wants and desires. In such dire circumstances, the woman, if she is unfamiliar with such relegation, chooses divorce.

When both spouses are working, one of the leading causes of divorce among Pakistan’s middle class is a confidence deficit. Absence from home and long official working hours contribute to a minor confidence deficit, which can be created in some cases but not in others. Without a doubt, confidence is the foundation of a good and intimate relationship, and without trust, no relationship can thrive. Trust is without a doubt the foundation of a strong and intimate relationship, and without it, no affiliation can thrive.

When both partners-to-be are opposed to tying the matrimonial knot but are obligated to do so due to family pressure, arranged or forced marriage may lead to divorce. Such unions sometimes end in divorce. Either spouse has a strong desire for something else, which has a negative impact on the marriage and can lead to divorce or separation.

Typically, the situation is compounded when friends believe it is their highest responsibility to assist the couple in resolving their marital conflicts, which takes the form of excessive and divisive involvement and adds fuel to the flames. The addition of taunts and ruthless phrases exacerbates the weakening relationship between the husband and wife, leading to divorce.

Consequences and prevention

It is important for everyone to understand that divorce is not a game, and it cannot be considered or bound to just the couple. Divorce marks the end of not only a relationship, but also of a family. When it comes to the consequences, it is the children who suffer the most, rather than the husband and wife.

They can only remain with either their father or their mother; they cannot have both, and a child needs both. Both the man and the woman will eventually understand their error, but it will be too late by then. Then there are various strategies for repairing a broken/ended marriage, which are often unappealing.

A blunder like divorce, on the other hand, can be avoided with determination and prudence. The first and most important step is to talk about the issue. Communicate as much as possible and express your thoughts, communication is important (listening as well). If this is the case, consider giving each other opportunities and situations to help each other get through the difficult situation. Allowing relatives to get too interested in your PERSONAL matter and forcing you into a divorce emotionally is not a good idea. Remember that divorce should be granted with a clear mind rather than a hasty, ill-tempered three-word release clause.

Couples who are having frequent issues should pursue counselling and couples therapy to find a solution to their failing marriage rather than ending it. Let us hope that the marriage bonds in Pakistan remain tight.

Tags: child rearing, family laws, family state, feminism, marriage, men, Muslim women, relationship, religious right, social tips, society

Category: Social