Early Marriage in Indonesia: Socioeconomic Determinants and Regional Disparities

Abstract

This study examines the socioeconomic and regional factors influencing early marriage in Indonesia. By analyzing secondary data from academic journals, government reports, and international institutions, the research applies gender theory, poverty theory, and the capability approach to interpret early marriage trends across provinces. Findings reveal that poverty, limited educational access, and weak employment opportunities drive families to marry off daughters early, particularly in underdeveloped regions. Geographic disparities compound the issue, as institutional capacity, cultural norms, and legal enforcement vary widely. While national reforms have raised the legal age of marriage, inconsistent local implementation and legal pluralism hinder progress. Case studies from selected provinces highlight the need for regionally adaptive policies that integrate legal advocacy with cultural engagement. The study contributes to the academic discourse by offering a theoretically grounded, regionally comparative framework and provides practical implications for policymakers and stakeholders committed to ending early marriage in Indonesia.