Inter-ethnic Relationships

Inter-ethnic Relationships2011 Census Data from the Office for National

StatisticsKey Points

Definition

An inter-ethnic relationship is defined as:

A relationship between a couple who are either married, in a civil partnership or cohabiting

where each partner identifies with a different ethnic group.

Inter-ethnic Relationships

In 2011

2.3 million people were in an inter-ethnic relationship


This was:

9%of all people living as a couple


7%Up from

in 2001


4%of those of White British ethnicity who were

part of a cohabiting couple relationship were in an inter-ethnic relationship.

Just:


4%Just:

Reflecting the fact that they are the largest group of the overall population,

so have a greater opportunity to be in a relationship with someone who is also White British.

of those of White British ethnicity who were part of a cohabiting couple relationship

were in an inter-ethnic relationship.


85%of people from mixed/multiple ethnic groups who

were in a cohabiting couple relationship were in an inter-ethnic relationship.

In comparison


85%In comparison

Reflecting the fact that these are the smallest group of the overall population.

of people from mixed/multiple ethnic groups whowere in a cohabiting couple relationship



12%

Indian

Cultural, racial and religious differences are likely to play a part in the low rate of inter ethnic relationships for those of

Asian/Asian British ethnicity who were in a cohabiting couple relationship:

9%7% 31%ChinesePakistaniBangladeshi


35%of people of an Arab ethnicity who

were in a cohabiting couple relationship were in an inter-ethnic relationship.

And finally:


35%And finally:

But the rate was higher for Arab men (43%) than Arab women (26%)

of people of an Arab ethnicity who were in a cohabiting couple relationship


Want more?See the whole report on the ONS website

Lifestyle

Inter-ethnic Relationships