Marriage and Money

Growing Debt

Widows in India face crushing debt and responsibilities.
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Money of Her Own

Around the world, a woman's economic well-being is tied to her marital status--whether she is single, divorced or widowed. The fate of her marriage or that of her partner can propel a woman into personal economic crisis. While financial support and debt relief can undoubtedly help women in the worst circumstances--such as India's cotton farmer widows--their situation raises deeper questions about how transactions related to marriage make women economically vulnerable, and what can be done about this. Reforming cultural practices that put a "price tag" on women is a good start. Read more

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