Volume – 03, Issue – 01, Page : 01-

Navigating Trauma in Shadows of Patriarchy through Cultural Narratives and Implications of ‘Marry-Your-Rapist Laws’

Author/s

Ingrid Svenson

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.56106/lss.2023.002

Date of Publication

24 February 2023

Abstract :
This research unearths the deeply rooted and troubling global phenomenon of “marry-your-rapist laws,” dissecting their historical origins, cultural justifications, and contemporary implications across diverse jurisdictions. Rooted in antiquity, these laws intertwine sexual violence with societal expectations around marriage, reflecting patriarchal structures, honor-shame dynamics, and the perceived value of female virginity. Exploring historical trajectories, this research unravels how marry-your-rapist laws have persisted through centuries, adapting to different cultural and legal contexts. The paper analyzes the cultural nuances that underpin these laws, perpetuating harmful gender norms and victim-blaming narratives. Cultural justifications grounded in societal expectations around marriage, family honor, and gender roles are scrutinized to understand the societal attitudes sustaining these laws. Examining contemporary implications, the research illuminates how these laws compromise justice, perpetuate trauma for survivors, and create a culture of impunity for perpetrators. Through specific cases globally, the paper offers insights into the lived experiences of individuals subjected to these laws, emphasizing the urgency of dismantling such regressive provisions. The international landscape is explored through a comparative analysis of examples from diverse countries, identifying global patterns, trends, and challenges in addressing marry-your-rapist laws. Legislative changes and challenges faced by countries striving to repeal or amend these laws are examined, emphasizing the complexities of navigating cultural resistance and ensuring legal reforms align with human rights standards. The role of international organizations, human rights advocates, and global campaigns against sexual violence is assessed to understand the impact and effectiveness of global advocacy in challenging and dismantling these laws. The research underscores the urgency of addressing marry-your-rapist laws as a pressing human rights issue, advocating for comprehensive strategies involving legal reforms, education, awareness campaigns, and international collaboration. In unraveling the layers of this intricate issue, this research contributes towards fostering a collective commitment to human rights and justice for survivors of sexual violence.

Keywords :
Contemporary Implications, Cultural Justifications, Gender Norms, Global Advocacy, Human Rights, Legal Reforms, Marry-Your-Rapist Laws, Patriarchal Structures, Sexual Violence, Victim-Blaming.

References :

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