Sammenwonen

Sammenwonen is a term used in Dutch-speaking contexts to describe a living arrangement in which two or more adults share a residence and their daily lives without being married or in a legally registered partnership. It commonly involves sharing housing, finances, and responsibilities such as childcare, but it does not by itself create a formal legal status.

The legal implications of samenwonen vary by country and jurisdiction. In many places, cohabitation does not automatically confer rights to property, inheritance, or partner-related social benefits. To secure specific rights or protections, couples may enter into a cohabitation agreement or, alternatively, formalize their relationship through marriage or a registered partnership. The existence and scope of protections for children, joint debts, and division of assets upon separation also depend on local law.

Practical aspects of samenwonen include decisions about household finances, property ownership, and everyday governance such as parenting arrangements and emergency planning. Without a formal status, assets acquired individually may remain individually owned, unless a cohabitation agreement or similar arrangement specifies otherwise. In the event of a breakup, terms for the division of jointly used property or financial support are not automatically covered by the arrangement and may require separate agreement or legal action.

Sammenwonen has become more common in many regions, reflecting broader social changes in attitudes toward traditional marriage and family life. It is often chosen for practical, financial, or personal reasons, and may coexist with or transition into formal partnerships or marriage at a later stage.