Marriages and Fertility among Turkish and Moroccan Women in Belgium: Results from Census Data

Abstract

The patterns of family formation and fertility behavior of Turkish and Moroccan women in Belgium are changing rapidly. The census data (1991) indicate a fertility decline. The reasons are changes in the nuptiality patterns, contraceptive behavior and migratory flows. The changes are not identical in both communities. Young cohorts postpone their marriage, but this is most prominent among Moroccan women. On the other hand, young Turkish women have a clear preference for smaller families. The changes also differentiate according to migrant ‘generation’ and level of education. The changes are not restricted to Belgium but are also observed in the countries of origin.