ABSTRACT
Major differences in patterns of and trends in marriage and divorce are observed across Asia. While average age at marriage is increasing almost everywhere, in South Asia teenage marriage remains common, whereas in South-East and East Asia there is not only later but also less marriage, with 15 per cent of women remaining single in their 40s in some countries. Cohabitation is prevalent in a few countries, and consanguineous marriage in some others. Vast differences are not surprising, since Asia is characterized by major differences in culture and levels of social and economic development. Delayed marriage and rising divorce rates can both be plausibly attributed to either socioeconomic trends or ideational change or, most likely, both. The chapter focuses on policy issues related to rising singlehood in some countries, continued high levels of child marriage in others. Some of the consequences of marriage change are discussed – for example, fertility levels, familial relationships and the prospects of care for growing elderly populations.
