Divorce in Contemporary Pakistan:A Socio-Islamic Analysis of Causes, Effects, and Preventive Strategies

Abstract

The rising incidence of divorce in Pakistan represents a significant socio-religious challenge that has far-reaching consequences for individuals, families, and society. While Islamic jurisprudence recognizes divorce (ṭalāq) as a legitimate—albeit discouraged—mechanism to end marital discord, the contemporary surge in divorce rates reflects deeper ruptures in the moral, legal, psychological, and cultural fabric of Pakistani society. This article presents a multidimensional analysis of the phenomenon, integrating Islamic legal perspectives, sociocultural dynamics, and empirical realities. It identifies the primary causes of divorce, analyzes its effects on women, children, and social cohesion, and proposes preventive strategies rooted in Islamic ethics, legal reform, and social policy. The study argues that meaningful reform must bridge the gap between Shari‘ah principles and modern family realities, moving beyond ritualistic formalism toward a value-based, restorative model of marital ethics. Keywords: Islamic Parenting,Digital Age,Faith Development (Iman),Moral Character (Akhlaq),Resilience (Sabr)