Marriage Rate Drops in Fiji

The decrease in marriage rate in Fiji indicates that Fijians are prioritising education, career and financial stability, and making informed decisions about relationships.

Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Lenora Qereqeretabua highlighted this shifting trend during a panel discussion on reproductive justice at the University of the South Pacific (USP) in Suva on Friday.

Amid changing population demographic trends across the Pacific, young people in Fiji are increasingly making their own choices about their futures, including when they get married.

“Many are now prioritising education, careers, financial stability before committing to marriage,” Ms Qereqeretabua said.

Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Lenora Qereqeretabua during a panel discussion on reproductive justice at the University of the South Pacific (USP) in Suva on July 11, 2025. Photo: Jernese Macanawai

“Economic pressures, including the cost of living and job security, make marriage sometimes less feasible, and changing social roles and increased gender equality have also led to greater personal agency, especially amongst young women.

“With better access to reproductive health services and family life education, you young Fijians are making informed choices about relationships.

“Marriage is increasingly seen as a choice, not a necessity, reflecting broader global trends in youth behaviour and values.”

She said this was why Government committed significant resources to support young people and relieve cost-of-living pressures in the 2025-2026 Budget.

“It has allocated a record $153 million in scholarships, supporting more than 24,000 students. Living allowances are up. New provisions target rural, maritime and low-income youth,” she said.

“This is not just spending, it’s justice and it’s an investment.”

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