Global trends in marriage: A comprehensive overview

Marriage, a fundamental institution, is experiencing significant changes worldwide. According to the United Nations, global trends in marriage reveal a complex outlook.

Globally, the countries with the highest annual marriage rates include West Bank & Gaza, Fiji, Egypt, the Bahamas, and Uzbekistan, all with more than nine marriages per 1,000 people. As of 2018, West Bank & Gaza leads the list with ten marriages per 1,000 people.

One of the most notable trends is the increasing age of marriage. The average age of marriage has risen globally, with many countries experiencing significant delays. For example, the median age of first marriage in the United States has risen to 29.8 for men and 28.4 for women, according to the Pew Research Centre.

Another significant trend is the growing acceptance and prevalence of non-traditional marriages, including same-sex marriages and interfaith unions.

Same-sex marriage is now legal in 38 countries worldwide including Luxembourg, Thailand and Taiwan, with many more countries recognising civil unions or other forms of partnership.

Marriage patterns are also undergoing significant changes, with many couples opting for cohabitation, civil unions, or other forms of partnership.

The United Nations reports that the proportion of couples living together without marriage has increased significantly in many countries.

Globally, divorce rates are also on the rise, with many countries experiencing significant increases in recent decades. The Maldives, Kazakhstan, and Russia top this list.