From Regulating Marriage Ceremonies to Recognizing Marriage Ceremonies

Abstract

This chapter argues for a post-ceremony registration system for weddings, similar to the registration of births and deaths, which would enable varied forms of marriage ceremony to be legally recognised. It contextualises ‘the Muslim problem’ and examines Muslim attitudes towards the nikah ceremony. It argues that individuals should be able to determine for themselves when and how they marry and that the state’s interests can be protected by such a post-ceremony registration system.