Marriage in Egypt Is a Minefield
Linda Heard, 18/4/08
Like young people all over the world, getting married features high on the itinerary of most Egyptians in their twenties. But in most countries, tying the knot isn’t the often-insurmountable hurdle it is here due to a combination of poverty, antiquated customs and meddling from family members. Due to high unemployment, low wages and inflation, young men are being forced to delay getting married often until their 30s or even 40s, which means many girls of marriageable age are being left without a suitor. Selma (not her real name), the 26-year-old daughter of an Alexandrian lawyer, a bright and personable young woman, told me she fears being left on the shelf as there are not enough young men around with the wherewithal to marry while older men still seek brides in their late teens or early twenties.
Tags: Human Rights, Womens Rights