How do civil divorce statistics on infidelity differ from Muslim divorce statistics in Singapore?

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Civil Divorce Statistics on Infidelity Differ Significantly from Muslim Divorce Statistics in Singapore

In Singapore, civil divorce statistics show a substantially lower rate of infidelity as a cited ground for divorce compared to Muslim divorce statistics. In 2025, only 0.9% of civil divorces cited adultery, whereas for Muslim divorces, infidelity was the main issue in 18.4% of cases, making it the second most common reason. Lawyers suggest these discrepancies are primarily due to differing legal frameworks and evidential requirements rather than a true reflection of adultery prevalence across different communities.
Unreasonable Behaviour Dominates Civil Divorce Grounds

For civil divorces governed by the Women's Charter, couples must prove an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage using one of six legal facts. In 2025, "unreasonable behaviour" was cited in 48.7% of these cases, making it the most frequently used ground. This broad category can encompass various issues, including abuse, addiction, financial neglect, and extra-marital affairs, offering a more encompassing and often easier path to prove than direct adultery.
Adultery Carries a Higher Evidential Burden in Civil Law

Proving adultery as a specific legal fact in civil divorces typically requires a higher standard of evidence. This often necessitates substantial proof, such as reports from private investigators or photographic evidence, to demonstrate a sexual relationship with a third party. Consequently, many couples whose marriages end due to infidelity opt to cite "unreasonable behaviour" instead, as it presents a lower evidential threshold.
Muslim Divorce Statistics Reflect Direct Cause of Breakdown

In contrast, Muslim divorces in Singapore record the stated reason for marital breakdown. Infidelity was cited as the primary issue in 18.4% of Muslim divorces in 2025, ranking second only to personality differences at 21.5%. Legal professionals note that this higher figure for infidelity in Muslim divorces does not necessarily imply a greater incidence of adultery among Muslim couples but rather reflects how the grounds are officially recorded within their specific legal framework.

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How do civil divorce statistics on infidelity differ from Muslim divorce statistics in Singapore?

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