Situation of women in Ivory Coast

Ivory Coast women often do not dare to divorce

Many women in Ivory Coast choose not to divorce their husbands even though they really want to, reports AFP. Just like in all of Africa, the number of divorces is at a low level in the country. In 2024, only just over 1,800 applications for divorce were filed.

Many women the news agency spoke to testify to fear of social ostracism in the event of divorce. Others point to lengthy legal processes and high costs as a reason for not divorcing. A strong faith also plays a role.

Josy says she still lives with her husband even though he is heavily in debt and has been unfaithful.

– Honestly, I do not have the courage to face society, family and church.

Lawyer: Women are hindered by lack of money

Women in Ivory Coast only divorce in “extreme situations,” lawyer Anne Bera-Dasse, who has worked in family law for over three decades, told Reuters.

The low number of divorces in the country is due, among other things, to lengthy legal processes and high costs. She also points to the fact that women often stop working when they get married. Those who do not have the money to support themselves generally do not divorce, says Bera-Dasse.

Corine Moussa Vanie of the women’s organization Akwaba Mousso says that Ivorian society is built around marriage.

“Even if you have an education, marriage is the pinnacle of success for a woman,” she says.