Framework to Protect Thai Women Marrying Foreigners

Nikah refers to marriage according to Islamic principles.

Nikah Practitioner is the person entering into a marriage according to Islamic principles.

ARAYA Nikah Planner & Consult Co., Ltd. has developed the Nikah Guardian Framework to protect and support Thai women who wish to marry foreigners. The framework includes the following steps and principles:

1. Understanding of Islam in a Multicultural Context: Ensure that both parties have a comprehensive understanding of Islam to prevent culture shock and to avoid misuse of religious principles by the husband or his family due to ignorance.
2. Knowledge of Family Management According to Islamic Principles: Both parties should be well-informed about their rights and responsibilities under Islamic family management principles in a multicultural environment.
3. Awareness of Legal Requirements and Family Status in Each Country: Both parties should understand the relevant legal protections and implications in each country to avoid misunderstandings that could affect their children.
4. Clarity on the Legal Status of the Nikah: Both parties should know whether the Nikah is a non-legal religious ceremony (Nikah with no legal effect) or a legally recognized marriage (Legally Nikah) to avoid any confusion post-ceremony.
5. Conducting Nikah in Accordance with Islamic Principles: The Nikah must be honest, open, and compliant with Islamic principles to avoid secret marriages (Secret Nikah) that could lead to dishonesty in starting family life.
6. Family or Close Friend Involvement: The bride should maintain a connection with her family or close friends even after appointing a Wali (guardian), ensuring that her loved ones are aware of and involved in the Nikah.
7. Compliance with Thai Laws: The Nikah must not violate Thai laws, such as marrying underage individuals, to ensure societal harmony and legal compliance.

These steps serve as protective measures for both parties, facilitating a peaceful and harmonious Nikah and family life for Thai women marrying foreign Muslims in Thailand.