Young Women’s Agency and the Social Navigation of Divorce from Child Marriage in West Java, Central Java, and West Lombok, Indonesia

Child marriage remains prevalent in several regions of Indonesia, largely because of the strong adherence to interpretations of Islamic law that allow underage marriage. This practice often leads to early divorce, significantly affecting young couples, children, and families. This study examines the repercussions of child marriage divorce in Indonesia, with a particular focus on the agency of young women during their life transitions following divorce. We argue that young women assert their agency by navigating their aspirations against Islamic sexual morality and traditional marital norms. From 2017 to 2020, across the three Indonesian provinces, our qualitative research revealed that marriage and divorce were deeply embedded in communal practices. In these contexts, cultural and religious norms rather than formal legal systems dictate the understanding and practices of marriage and divorce. By examining various marital and divorce practices, this study highlights the resilience and agency of young Indonesian women as they navigated their lives after divorce. This shows how they challenge traditional norms and advocate independence, offering insights into their struggles and triumphs in the face of societal expectations.