Free union in Colombia: 1973-2005

Abstract

We examine the geographic and social boundaries of unmarried cohabitation in Colombia between 1973 and 2005. We begin by describing the historical roots and evolution of cohabitation through the second half of the 20th century. We then document the most recent trends in cohabitation using census microdata. Results show a widespread increase in cohabitation in all educational groups and regions. This rise occured in a context of growing legal recognition that practically equates the rights and obligations of cohabitors with those of married people. The cohabitation boom maintains some of its historical features, such as high prevalence among less educated women, and its cultural and regional roots. These characteristics remain visible in the cultural and regional systems first identified by Gutiérrez Pineda in the 1960s.