Economic collapse and ongoing conflict in Lebanon are pushing young people to avoid marriage and postpone starting families [1, 2].

This trend reflects a broader societal shift as the nation's youth face a future defined by instability. The decision to forgo marriage is not merely a personal choice but a reaction to systemic failures that make traditional family milestones financially and emotionally unattainable.

According to reports, the combination of escalating war and a severe economic crisis has created an environment where stability is rare [1, 2]. Many young Lebanese citizens now view the idea of marriage as a luxury they cannot afford, or a risk they cannot take, amid persistent security threats.

High costs of living have become a primary barrier to establishing new households [1, 2]. With inflation and the devaluation of currency eroding purchasing power, the financial burden of wedding ceremonies and housing has become prohibitive for a significant portion of the population.

Beyond the financial strain, political and security tensions continue to weigh on the mental health and planning of the youth [1, 2]. The lack of a predictable future makes the long-term commitment of marriage appear impractical in a region plagued by volatility.

These factors have led many to either delay their plans indefinitely or completely abandon the idea of marriage [1, 2]. This demographic shift suggests a long-term impact on Lebanon's population growth and social structure as the youth prioritize survival over family formation.

“The decision to forgo marriage is not merely a personal choice but a reaction to systemic failures.”

The reluctance of Lebanese youth to marry signals a deepening crisis of confidence in the state's ability to provide basic stability. When a significant portion of the population ceases to form families, it often leads to long-term demographic decline and increased emigration, as young people seek stability in other countries rather than attempting to build a life in a volatile environment.