What is the marriage like in Palau?

Marriage in Palau is a sacred and important institution. It is considered to be a lifelong commitment between a man and a woman, and is seen as a way to create a strong and stable family unit.

Traditional Palauan Marriage

Traditionally, Palauan marriages were arranged by the families of the bride and groom. The groom's family would approach the bride's family with a proposal, and if the proposal was accepted, the two families would begin to plan the wedding ceremony.

The wedding ceremony itself was a complex and elaborate affair, involving many rituals and traditions. The bride and groom would exchange vows and rings, and then be presented with gifts from their families and friends. The ceremony would often be followed by a feast and dancing.

Modern Palauan Marriage

Today, Palauan marriages are still often arranged by the families of the bride and groom, but it is no longer as common as it once was. Many couples now choose to marry for love, rather than for convenience.

The wedding ceremony itself has also become more simplified. While some couples still choose to have a traditional Palauan wedding, others opt for a more modern ceremony.

Divorce

Divorce is relatively rare in Palau. However, it is becoming more common, especially among younger couples. If a couple does decide to divorce, they must go through a legal process that can be lengthy and expensive.

Challenges

There are a number of challenges that face marriage in Palau. One challenge is the high cost of living. This can make it difficult for couples to afford to get married and raise a family.

Another challenge is the lack of affordable housing. This can make it difficult for couples to find a place to live after they get married.

Finally, there is the issue of domestic violence. Domestic violence is a serious problem in Palau, and it can have a devastating impact on marriages.

Despite these challenges, marriage remains an important institution in Palau. It is seen as a way to create a strong and stable family unit, and it is a source of pride and joy for many Palauans.