Sexual coercion within marriage in Bangladesh

SynopsisThis article examines the influence of intra-marital gender relations on sexual decision-making and women's sexual and reproductive health in Bangladesh. It presents findings based on qualitative data that indicate that strict patterns of traditional responsibilities and decision-making regarding sexual relationships leave little room for women's consent. Notions of women's right to sexual pleasure or to refuse sex are widely rejected by men, many of whom, in contrast, view sex with their wives as a husband's right. As such, a majority of women in the study experienced sexual intercourse against their will, based on a combination of threats, intimidation and force, which interview responses suggest may have serious consequences on their sexual and reproductive health. In the conclusion, some practical implications of the research are covered, and policy recommendations are made to combine women's empowerment measures with men's engagement and awareness-raising, as well as supportive legal frameworks.