Co-habitation trumps marriage

"We notice a growing distaste for the institution of marriage, especially among women," says sociologist Dimitri Mortelmans of the University of Antwerp. "They see it as something from past generations, which calls to mind an image of power imbalance that is to their disadvantage." Also remarkable is the rising number of couples in their 40s and 50s who have failed marriages behind them, and are now opting for legal cohabitation with their new partner, or even living apart," says relationship expert Rika Ponnet. "On the other hand, many young couples see living together as a sort of test run for later marriage."