Labour migration, sex, and polygyny: negotiating patriarchy in Tajikistan

This paper explores ways in which matrimonial arrangements are being transformed in Tajikistan by assessing the impact of labour migration in the increase of divorces as well as polygynous unions. I argue that instead of considering polygyny simply as a reification of patriarchy, we should view it as a way for both men and women to negotiate – and sometimes even subvert – the traditional patriarchal rules that dictate the institution of marriage in Tajikistan. The study is based primarily on fieldwork conducted in northern Tajikistan in 2010 and 2011.