Can you marry more than one person in Vietnam?

Polygamy in Vietnam: Legal Prohibition and Historical Practices

In Vietnam, the practice of polygamy, or the marriage of one person to multiple individuals, is strictly forbidden by law. This prohibition is enshrined in the country’s constitution, which explicitly mandates monogamy as the sole legal form of marriage.

Historical Polygamous Traditions

Historically, certain ethnic groups in Vietnam, including the Hmong, practiced polygamy as part of their cultural traditions. This was particularly common in rural areas, where families needed additional labor for farming and other agricultural activities. However, with the advent of modernization and the adoption of Western legal systems, these practices gradually declined.

Legal Prohibition

The prohibition of polygamy in Vietnam is clearly outlined in the country’s Family Law. Article 10 of the law states that: “Marriage is the relationship between one man and one woman who voluntarily enter into a marriage contract with the purpose of living together as a family.” This provision effectively outlaws any form of plural marriage.

Consequences of Polygamy

Engaging in polygamy is a serious offense in Vietnam and can lead to legal consequences. Individuals who violate the prohibition may face criminal charges, including:

• Imprisonment for up to five years
• A fine of up to VND 50 million (approximately USD 2,200)
• Loss of rights and benefits

Cultural Shift

Over time, there has been a significant shift in cultural attitudes towards polygamy in Vietnam. While it was once tolerated in some rural communities, it is now widely condemned as a harmful practice that violates the rights of women and children.

In conclusion, polygamy is strictly prohibited in Vietnam under the country’s constitution and Family Law. Historical traditions of polygamy have largely diminished, and the practice is now considered to be both illegal and socially unacceptable.