ISLAMABAD: A new Gallup Pakistan survey indicated that 40 percent of the people in Pakistan support second marriage, while 60% oppose this idea. The survey highlights social and gender-based divides in society on the subject.
Conditional Support Based on Financial Stability
According to the report, those in favor of second marriages offered conditional support, stating it should only be considered if a person is financially stable. However, a majority rejected the idea entirely, asserting they would never allow it under any circumstances.
Clear Gender Divide in Opinions
The survey revealed a significant gender gap. Half of the male respondents—around 50%—supported the concept of a second marriage, compared to only 30% of women. This divide reflects differing perspectives on marital responsibilities and fairness within relationships.
Fairness Between Wives Seen as a Challenge
When asked about the fair treatment of two wives, 72% of respondents said equality would be difficult or impossible to maintain. Only 26% believed fairness could be achieved. Interestingly, 59% of those who considered it impossible were men, indicating awareness of the complexities such arrangements entail.
Conditions for Permitting a Second Marriage
Participants of the survey gave different reasons for second marriage. For example, some said that it was acceptable if a couple is issueless. Meanwhile, some others (15%) linked approval to a man’s capability to treat both wives equally. Nonetheless, 10% said the second marriage must not occur without the consent of first wife.
