In some countries, divorce is either illegal or extremely restricted due to cultural, religious, or legal reasons.
While these nations may offer alternative legal options like annulments or separations, divorce remains out of reach for many couples.
Here are three countries where divorce is either not permitted or highly limited:
1. The Philippines
Divorce is not legal for the majority of the population, though it is allowed for Muslim citizens under specific conditions (via Sharia law). For others, annulment or legal separation are the only legal options for ending a marriage, and these processes can be lengthy and costly.
The Philippines is predominantly Catholic, and the church’s influence strongly opposes divorce.
2. Vatican City
Divorce is not permitted in Vatican City, as it is an independent city-state governed by the Roman Catholic Church. Since Vatican City follows strict Catholic doctrine, divorce is considered against church teachings.
The Vatican City, as the heart of the Catholic Church, adheres to the church’s prohibition on divorce.
3. Malta
Although divorce was legalized in 2011 following a referendum, it remains a highly sensitive and culturally controversial issue. Prior to this, divorce was entirely illegal, and separations were the only legal alternative.
Malta is a deeply Catholic country where divorce was historically opposed by the church.
In these countries, divorce remains a complex and restricted issue due to religious and cultural factors.
