Tunisia Experiences Delay in Marriage Age and Rise in Celibacy and Refusal to Marry
According to sociologist Mamdouh Ezzedine, Tunisia is witnessing a delay in the age of marriage, as well as an increase in celibacy and refusal to marry. The average age of marriage is now estimated to be 34 years for men and 29 years for women.
During his appearance on Express FM on Monday, December 8, 2025, Ezzedine added that since 2011, the number of marriage contracts has been constantly decreasing. In 2024, there were 70,000 marriages, a drop of around 10% compared to 2023, which saw 78,000 unions. This trend is contributing to a reduction in the birth rate, which has fallen from 225,000 births in 2014 to 160,000 in 2023, and a decrease in the average family size, which has shrunk from five to three members.
The sociologist also highlighted the increase in divorces. In 2024, 16,000 divorces were recorded, with 30% occurring within the first ten years of marriage, and the average age of divorce being 36 years. Approximately 600,000 children are living in divorced families, with 104 cases leading to suicide due to emotional crises related to divorce and integration difficulties.
Furthermore, Mr. Ezzedine noted an increase in premarital sex and a change in the traditional concept of marriage in Tunisia, which is now perceived as a "market" based on interest and profitability, rather than stability, continuity of the relationship, and sharing of life.
