Band 7+: In many countries women no longer feel the need to get married. Some people believe that this is because women are able to earn their own income and therefore do not require the financial security that marriage can bring. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

There is a worldwide misconception that women in contemporary society no longer desire marriage because they have become increasingly independent. However, financial sustainability does not eliminate the human need for love, affection, and companionship. Furthermore, marriage can provide things money cannot, such as a sense of stability and long-term commitment.

First and foremost, financial independence does not necessarily mean that women no longer want to be loved. For instance, women can be financially independent while still wanting love, affection, and a lifelong partner. Furthermore, professional independence does not eliminate women’s desire to sometimes be vulnerable. For example, even highly professional women may appreciate strong partner by their side with whom they can feel vulnerable, comfortable, and free from pressure of always having to be self-reliant. Consequently, marriage helps to hold the balance between personal life and work, as it allows individuals to be themselves.

What is more, marriage gives a sense of support, fulfillment and commitment that financial sustainability cannot provide. For instance, attaining success in career requires a substantial amount of effort and strength, which is very challenging without loving and supporting a partner by your side. Therefore, marriage is not merely an economic arrangement, it is a way to find your singificant other that will be there when needed. Moreover, marriage can allow partners to share household, financial, and family responsibilities. Without a spouse, all those responsibilities may become an overwhelming burden and even an obstacle in one’s career. Therefore, marriage can make life of even financially independent people easier and help them feel supported.

In conclusion, women’s increasing independence should not be seen as a rejection of marriage, since financial success and the desire for a meaningful relationship can coexist. There is more to marriage than a financial arrangement, as it provides a life-long partner, sense of fulfillment and commitment.