Child marriage dispensation from a reproductive health perspective: why do judges grant or reject applications?

Child marriage remains a critical public health concern in Indonesia, with significant implications for reproductive health and maternal well-being. In South Kalimantan, Indonesia, the practice is often justified through court-approved dispensations, exposing young brides to higher risks of complications during pregnancy and childbirth, perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality. This study investigates the determinants influencing judicial decisions on child marriage dispensation applications from a reproductive health perspective, focusing on 13 Religious Courts in South Kalimantan, Indonesia.