Dowry System in Pakistan: A Case Study of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Abstract

In Pakistan, the dowry system is still a deeply ingrained social issue with significant ramifications for gender equality and social cohesion. It is especially prevalent in areas like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK). The dowry tradition, which date back to ancient traditions, is the transfer of money, assets, or presents from the bride's family to the groom's family after marriage. A substantial financial and psychological burden is placed on families, particularly those from lower socioeconomic origins, by dowry demands that continue despite legal bans and changing socioeconomic landscapes. This study of the dowry system in Pakistan, with a particular focus on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), is important because it examines a deeply ingrained socio-cultural practice that has ramifications for gender dynamics and the general well-being of society. This study attempts to provide a thorough knowledge of how the dowry system influences families, particularly women's families, and to suggest policy strategies for minimizing its negative consequences using qualitative and quantitative analysis, including surveys, case studies, and interviews. The finding of the current study highlights the strong social disapproval of dowries and highlight how they negatively impact women's autonomy, marriage relationships, and social justice. Legislative changes, public awareness campaigns, and economic empowerment programs that work to change cultural norms and advance gender equality in marriage customs are some of the policy actions that are advised to lessen these consequences.