How Many Marriages Are Same-Sex in Countries and Territories Where It's Legal?

 

**How Many Marriages Are Same-Sex in Countries and Territories Where It's Legal? | Pew Research Center**

As of 2024, more than 30 countries and territories worldwide have legalized same-sex marriage, reflecting a significant shift in global attitudes toward LGBTQ+ rights over the past few decades. The Pew Research Center has conducted studies to analyze how many marriages in these nations are same-sex and to explore broader trends regarding marriage equality.

Global Legalization of Same-Sex Marriage**

The Netherlands became the first country to legalize same-sex marriage in 2001, marking a major milestone in the global movement for LGBTQ+ rights. Since then, many countries across Europe, the Americas, and Oceania have followed suit, making same-sex marriage legal in much of the Western world. Recent additions include Switzerland, which legalized same-sex marriage in 2021, and Chile, which followed in 2022.

Prevalence of Same-Sex Marriages**

While same-sex marriage has gained legal recognition in numerous countries, the actual number of same-sex marriages varies significantly depending on several factors, including societal acceptance, the population size, and cultural attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals.

According to data collected in countries where same-sex marriage has been legal for a few years or longer, same-sex marriages typically make up a small percentage of overall marriages. For instance:

- **The Netherlands**, which has the longest history of same-sex marriage, saw approximately 2.5-3% of all marriages in the country being same-sex in the years following legalization.

- **The United States**, which legalized same-sex marriage nationwide in 2015, saw around 1.1 million same-sex marriages by 2022. While this number continues to rise, same-sex marriages still represent a small proportion of total marriages—estimated at less than 5%.

- **Canada**, which legalized same-sex marriage in 2005, has reported that about 2-3% of marriages are same-sex annually.

In most countries where same-sex marriage is legal, similar trends are observed. Same-sex marriages tend to make up a small portion of total marriages, reflecting not only the smaller LGBTQ+ population but also ongoing societal and cultural challenges in embracing marriage equality.

Factors Influencing Same-Sex Marriage Rates**

Several factors influence the rate of same-sex marriages in countries where it is legal:

1. **Societal Acceptance**: In countries where LGBTQ+ individuals face less societal stigma and discrimination, same-sex marriages are more prevalent. For example, nations with higher levels of societal acceptance, such as Canada and the Netherlands, tend to see a higher percentage of same-sex marriages.

2. **Cultural Attitudes**: In more conservative or religious societies, even where same-sex marriage is legal, cultural resistance can deter couples from marrying. For example, in countries such as Spain and Portugal, despite legalization, same-sex marriage rates remain relatively low compared to overall marriages.

3. **Legal and Financial Incentives**: In countries where legal benefits such as tax breaks, adoption rights, and spousal privileges are tied to marriage, same-sex couples are more likely to marry. These legal incentives often motivate couples to formalize their relationships.

4. **Population Size**: Larger countries with significant LGBTQ+ populations tend to see a higher absolute number of same-sex marriages. In contrast, smaller nations or those with fewer openly LGBTQ+ individuals report lower numbers.

Regional Variations**

There are significant regional variations in the number of same-sex marriages as well:

- **Europe**: Countries like the Netherlands, Belgium, and Spain were among the earliest adopters of same-sex marriage, and they continue to report steady numbers of same-sex marriages. However, in Eastern Europe, where same-sex marriage remains illegal or less accepted, LGBTQ+ individuals face greater challenges in formalizing their unions.

- **North America**: The United States and Canada both have a significant number of same-sex marriages. In the U.S., the number of same-sex marriages has continued to grow since 2015, though it remains a small percentage of total marriages.

- **Latin America**: Countries like Argentina and Brazil have legalized same-sex marriage, though the number of same-sex marriages varies widely depending on the region. In Argentina, same-sex marriages make up a small portion of overall marriages, while in Brazil, some regions report higher rates due to strong LGBTQ+ communities.

- **Asia and Africa**: Same-sex marriage remains illegal in most countries in these regions, with Taiwan being the notable exception in Asia. Taiwan became the first country in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage in 2019, and by 2022, over 7,000 same-sex couples had married. In Africa, only South Africa recognizes same-sex marriage, and rates of same-sex marriages remain low due to societal stigma.

Future Trends**

As more countries continue to legalize same-sex marriage, it is expected that the number of same-sex marriages will continue to grow globally. However, the rate of growth will likely depend on factors such as changing societal attitudes, advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, and legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. Countries where LGBTQ+ rights are more entrenched and respected are likely to see higher rates of same-sex marriages over time.

In conclusion, while same-sex marriage remains a relatively small percentage of total marriages in countries where it is legal, it is a crucial marker of progress for LGBTQ+ rights. The legal recognition of these unions affirms the dignity and equality of LGBTQ+ individuals and paves the way for a more inclusive future.