Realitas Pernikahan Dini dalam Perspektif Gender

Abstract

Child marriage remains a prevalent social practice in Indonesia, particularly in areas with low levels of education and economic resources. From a gender perspective, this phenomenon reflects structural inequality that places women in a subordinate position due to the dominance of patriarchal culture. This study employs a qualitative-descriptive method with a normative-juridical and literature study approach to examine early marriage as a manifestation of systemic gender injustice. The findings reveal that sociocultural norms, narrow religious interpretations, and economic pressures are the main drivers of this practice. Its consequences include domestic violence, high divorce rates, reproductive and psychological health issues, and intergenerational poverty. Efforts to address child marriage must be interdisciplinary, involving gender-responsive education, women's economic empowerment, and the active role of civil society organizations. By deconstructing the harmful social constructions and strengthening women's bargaining power, the prevalence of child marriage can be significantly reduced.