Dampak Hukum Adat Belis Terhadap Angka Perceraian Di Pulau Sumba

Aisyah Wulan Suci, Hafsah Hafsah, Safran Safran

Abstract


This study aims to examine the impact of the customary law of belis on divorce rates in Sumba Island through a library research approach based on an integrative review. Belis, a traditional transfer of wealth from the groom's family to the bride's, serves not only as a symbol of respect and social recognition but also functions as a binding mechanism between clans within the customary structure. However, under the pressures of modernity and economic hardship, belis has shifted from a cultural symbol to a structural burden that may lead to marital inequality and conflict. This study reveals that belis can either hinder or accelerate the divorce process, depending on the family's social and economic context. Cultural narratives, social pressure, and gender imbalances shaped by customary norms are significant variables in this dynamic. The findings emphasize the importance of a progressive reinterpretation of belis to ensure its relevance in a more inclusive and equitable society. This research offers both theoretical and practical contributions to the discourse on customary law reform and encourages critical dialogue between local cultural values and universal human rights principles.

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengkaji dampak hukum adat belis terhadap angka perceraian di Pulau Sumba melalui pendekatan library research berbasis integrative review. Belis, sebagai praktik pemberian harta dari pihak laki-laki kepada pihak perempuan dalam institusi perkawinan, tidak hanya merepresentasikan simbol kehormatan dan pengakuan sosial, tetapi juga berfungsi sebagai mekanisme pengikat antar-marga dalam struktur adat. Namun, dalam konteks modernitas dan tekanan ekonomi, makna belis mengalami pergeseran menjadi beban struktural yang potensial menimbulkan ketimpangan relasi rumah tangga dan memicu konflik. Studi ini menemukan bahwa belis dapat menjadi faktor pendorong maupun penghambat dalam proses perceraian, tergantung pada konteks sosial dan ekonomi masing-masing keluarga. Narasi budaya, tekanan sosial, serta ketimpangan gender yang dibentuk oleh norma adat menjadi variabel penting dalam dinamika ini. Temuan menunjukkan pentingnya reinterpretasi hukum adat belis secara progresif agar tetap relevan dalam tatanan masyarakat yang inklusif dan adil. Penelitian ini memberikan kontribusi teoretik dan praktis bagi wacana reformasi hukum adat, serta mendorong dialog kritis antara nilai budaya lokal dan prinsip hak asasi manusia.


Keywords


Belis, Customary law , Divorce, Sumba society, Gender justice, Modernization, customary structure.

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