Khadeeja Saeed

khadeejasaeed9@gmail.com

The Love Contract: Is Marriage Still The Goal?

In this audio documentary, I explore why marriage is on the decline in the West, weaving together personal stories and cultural insights. Growing up in Pakistan, marriage seemed like an expectation, but in the UK, it's viewed as one of many possible paths. Through interviews with people from both Eastern and Western backgrounds, I examine the forces reshaping modern relationships.

From dating apps and social media to economics realities and shifting cultural values, relationships are evolving in new ways. As fewer people prioritise marriage, platonic relationships, chosen families and personal independence are redefining the meaning of connection. While Pakistan maintains strong traditions, modern dating is on the rise. In contrast, the West embraces individual choice, leading to a completely different approach to relationships.

This documentary unpacks how these changes reflect broader shifts in society, asking: Why aren't people getting married anymore and what does love and commitment look like today?