Burkina Faso: Recognition of customary and religious marriage in the same way as civil marriage
On Wednesday, July 10, 2024, the government of Burkina Faso made a landmark decision during its cabinet meeting by adopting a historic decree to amend the Persons and Family Code.
This decree paves the way for the registration of customary and religious marriages in civil registries across Burkina Faso.
This progressive step marks a significant advancement in recognizing and integrating traditional and religious practices into Burkinabe society.
Primarily, this initiative underscores a deep respect for cultural traditions prevalent across various regions of Burkina Faso.
By formally acknowledging these marriages, the government affirms and celebrates these customs, reinforcing cultural identity and community values.
This recognition allows citizens to feel honored and valued within their diverse cultural backgrounds.
Furthermore, registering customary and religious marriages in civil registries provides enhanced legal protection for couples and their children.
Previously, these unions lacked the same legal status as civil marriages, potentially leading to issues related to inheritance, divorce, or children’s rights recognition.
Now, these marriages will carry equal legal weight, ensuring fairness and heightened legal security for all families.
Moreover, this reform streamlines access to public services for couples married under customary or religious rites.
With their marriages officially recognized, they can more readily access social, economic, and administrative rights such as obtaining identification documents, healthcare services, and social benefits.
This facilitates greater social and economic integration for citizens.
In essence, the amendment to the Persons and Family Code to include customary and religious marriages represents a transformative leap forward for Burkina Faso.
It reinforces cultural traditions, enhances legal protections, facilitates access to public services, and promotes national unity through inclusive policy-making.
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Olivier TOE
