A searchable database of marriage registration records is being
set up as a first step in helping to prevent bigamy in Beijing.
Eighteen districts and counties are taking part, forming a
network through which marriage records can be checked to ensure
that neither bride- nor groom-to-be are already wed to anyone
else.
Ten areas of the capital, including Xicheng, Changping, Fengtai
and Tongzhou, have already joined the scheme, while several others
are currently testing their systems in readiness to link up.
Database construction and management has been given top priority
by Beijing’s Marriage Registration Department, according to sources
in the city’s Municipal Bureau of Civil Affairs.
Using the new network, a computer can instantly display
someone’s marital status and any previous marriage registration
records.
The information will be confidential since only authorized staff
can access the system, according to Li Ziwei, leader of the
bureau’s Marriage Registration Department.
Of course, the new system will only work in these areas of
Beijing – a nationwide network would need to be set up in order to
trace records from across the country.
The use of e-government in marriage registration has advanced a
great deal. People can now get information on the process as well
as downloadable forms from the bureau’s website. However, they
still need to appear in person to finalize all formalities by
signing a personal declaration in front of registration staff.
(China.org.cn by Zhang Tingting, November 10, 2004)