Mohammad Hidir Baharudin, Ahmad Munjin Nasih
It is estimated that between 900,000 and 1,000,000 children are affected each year by divorce petitions filed in Indonesian courts, especially concerning maintenance, as there is currently no effective mechanism to ensure that parents or guardians fulfil their payment obligations. Since the provision of children’s maintenance largely depends on the goodwill of guardians, the issue of violations of children’s maintenance rights upon divorce in Indonesia warrants serious examination. Therefore, this study aims to examine public perceptions regarding the violation of children’s maintenance rights following divorce in Indonesia and to identify the legal, social, and institutional factors that hinder parents or guardians from securing these rights. This study employs a qualitative research approach, utilising content analysis and field interviews. It aims to explore patterns and perceptions regarding violations of children’s maintenance rights following divorce, as well as the issues and challenges faced by parents or guardians in claiming those rights. The findings reveal that Indonesian law obliges parents to care for and educate their children even after divorce. Despite these legal provisions, significant challenges persist in safeguarding children’s rights. The findings of the study reveal that despite existing legal provisions obliging parents to support their children after divorce, many children in Indonesia continue to experience neglect due to weak law enforcement, financial constraints, lack of awareness, and the reluctance of guardians to pursue legal action, resulting in persistent violations of children’s maintenance rights. Hence, the study proposes several solutions, including enhancing judicial awareness and introducing child maintenance insurance schemes. Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) also play a crucial role in advocating for children’s welfare post-divorce, although limited resources often hinder their efforts. The study is significant as it provides empirical insights and policy recommendations to strengthen legal enforcement and social support systems that safeguard children’s welfare and rights after divorce in Indonesia. © The authors (2026).
School of Islamic Studies, Sultan Ibrahim Johor, Islamic University College, Johor, Johor Bahru, 80350, Malaysia; Faculty of Islamic Studies, State University of Malang, Jawa Timur, Kota Malang, 65145, Indonesia
