Contestations about polygyny Converts to Islam in the Netherlands

The chapter briefly discusses the problematisation of polygynous marriages in policy-making and the media, and then it turns to the narratives of women who have entered such marriages. The interlocutors are converts to Islam who consider themselves observant Muslims. Because of their unfamiliarity with polygyny, they need to reflect seriously on how they entered such a marriage. Through their reflexive narratives the insight into how they signify and engage in a polygynous marital relationship can be gained. The interlocutors considered marriage important both for religious and social reasons. Yet the challenges to find a spouse and to enter into marriage, or, if already in a relationship to make this union halal (religiously permitted) are considerable. Only a small number of them would consider a polygynous marriage an option, or have entered into such marriage, as polygyny is a stigmatised practice within the majority society as well as among (some) Muslims. Polygyny and Islamic-only marriages are prohibited in the Netherlands because these are considered harmful for women. The narratives of the interlocutors, in contrast, present a more complex and nuanced evaluation of polygyny.