Removing barriers to women’s security in marriage

Access to, and affording, a marriage licence in DRC is now within reach for most married women and couples in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This follows policy advocacy work conducted by MenEngage DRC and Congo Men’s Network. In the past, getting a marriage licence was expensive and most men avoided the process. This unintentionally harmed women who in case of loss of a spouse or separation had no legal document confirming their marriage. Advocacy work conducted amongst traditional leaders in two provinces has led to buy-in on proposals to reduce the marriage licence fee and a policy has now been passed to this effect. This has resulted in more marriages getting registered, giving more women the security needed for themselves and their children.