Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Between 19 June and 3 July, the Yuksalish Nationwide Movement conducted a sociological survey titled “Weddings in Uzbekistan.” The aim of the survey was to examine public attitudes toward wedding traditions, related expenses, and their impact on family finances.

The poll was conducted online through social media and partner platforms, with 1,247 participants. Over 71% of respondents were married, while around 24% were single.

The results revealed a stark disconnect between most families’ incomes and the actual or expected costs of weddings. According to the findings, 81% of participants—primarily from the regions—reported monthly family incomes ranging from 5 to 12 million soums. Meanwhile, 65% said that their wedding expenditures amounted to between 50 and 100 million soums or more—sums equivalent to, or even exceeding, an entire year’s income.

The overwhelming majority of families are unable to cover these costs through personal savings. The main sources of wedding financing were reported as joint contributions from the newlyweds and their families (55%), borrowed funds (25%), and only 14% said their own income was sufficient. About 6% did not answer this question.

“Weddings are becoming a serious financial burden that often does not correspond to household income, pushing young couples and their parents into debt and undermining financial stability from the very start of married life,” the analysis stated.

A key driver of lavish weddings is not the couple’s personal desire for extravagance, but strong societal and family pressure. Most respondents admitted that high expenses are dictated by external expectations rather than personal preferences. Social norms, traditions, and the views of older generations are often decisive.

“Many respondents agree that elaborate weddings cause stress and debt, and nearly 45% express regret about the money spent. While there is a growing public awareness of the unreasonableness of such spending, overcoming social expectations remains difficult,” the authors noted.

Despite a desire for more rational choices, respondents said they feel trapped by entrenched customs. If given true freedom of choice, many would prefer to invest the money in education, housing, health, business ventures, or travel rather than lavish celebrations.

The survey ultimately identified a clear public demand for simplifying and reforming wedding traditions. People appear ready to abandon the most expensive and burdensome elements of celebrations in favor of long-term, practical investments in their future.