News: Divorce Rates By Country (Infographic)

In this article, we’re looking at divorce rates both in the UK and across the globe. Using findings made available by the Office for National Statistics, we have put together an easy-to-follow infographic highlighting the divorce trends around the world. Here, we look into things with more depth.

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UK

Between 2015 and 2016, divorce rates for the UK rose for the first time in seven years – with 107,071 divorces recorded in 2016. In 2015, divorce rates in the UK equated to 1.9 per 1,000 inhabitants.

It’s important to remember that, on a global scale, the UK divorce rate remains much lower than other countries despite the increase. It’s also relatively low on a historical scale; the last major increase was in 2003, where divorce rates where 30% higher than they are today.

Europe

When compared to many European countries, the UK’s divorce rates aren’t anything particularly special. While higher than Italy – the lowest in Europe at 1.4 – they remain significantly lower than other Central Europe and Scandinavian nations. Sweden and Denmark, for example, have comparatively high divorce rates of 2.5 and 2.9 per 1000 inhabitants, respectively. The Czech Republic, too, sees similar rates of 2.5, while further East, you see rates reaching 4.1 in Belarus. It’s safe to say that, even in divorce, Europe’s diversity is on display and looking at the continent as a whole, there doesn’t seem to be any real trend.

World

Europe does not have the highest divorce rates in the world. For that, you have to look further afield. Countries with enormous populations – Russia and the United States – have high divorce rates (4.5 and 3.6 respectively).

Of the 104 countries surveyed by the Office for National Statistics, the UK was tied 38th. While not ideal, it’s far from those in the top 20. Surprisingly, the popular holiday and honeymoon destination the Maldives tops the list with a staggering divorce rate of 10.97 per 1,000 inhabitants per year. With a population under 500,000, that’s quite the statistic.

To look at divorce on this scale truly demonstrates the differing global attitudes towards marriage, relationship and separation. While modern trends suggest younger couples are staying away from marriage, it’s still the most common living status for most couples in the UK, Europe and the US. Divorce rates will always fluctuate – as will social attitudes – but for now, the UK finds itself hovering around the average level on the global divorce table.

Goodwins Family Law Solicitors

Goodwins Family Law Solicitors provide proven specialist divorce services for couples in and around London. As experienced solicitors who have handled divorce and separation cases of varying complexities, we understand who stressful, emotional and – in some cases – fractious a divorce can be. We provide comprehensive assistance to help you decide what option is best for you. With a fixed fee initial consultation, we can help you figure out the best way to proceed.

Should you have grounds for a divorce under English and Welsh law, you can choose to move forward with Goodwins to pursue the best possible outcome for you and your partner. To find out more, contact our team today.