As China's society continues to modernize and shift away from traditional customs and beliefs, the country's marriage laws have also undergone significant changes. These changes have not gone unnoticed by the international community, with many foreign observers taking note of the country's evolving approach to family law.

One of the most significant shifts in recent years has been the increasing emphasis on women's rights within marriage. China's revised Marriage Law, which was passed in 2001, explicitly prohibits domestic violence and gives women greater protection and rights in cases of divorce. This is a notable departure from traditional Chinese customs, which have long viewed marriage as a patriarchal institution and placed little emphasis on women's rights.

While there is still progress to be made in ensuring that these laws are enforced and that women are protected against discrimination and abuse, the changes made to China's marriage laws have been viewed as a positive step forward by the international community.

Another area in which China's marriage laws have undergone significant changes is in the area of same-sex marriage. While gay marriage is still not legal in China, there has been a growing push for recognition and legal protection for same-sex couples. In 2015, a landmark case in which a gay couple sued for the right to marry received widespread attention both within China and internationally. While the case ultimately failed, it sparked a national debate about the need for legal protection for same-sex couples and highlighted the growing support for LGBTQ rights in China.

Overall, while there is still work to be done in ensuring that China's marriage laws fully protect the rights of all individuals, the country's progress in recent years has been viewed positively by international observers. In a rapidly changing society, China's approach to family law is evolving in significant ways, reflecting the changing attitudes and beliefs of its people.

However, there are still areas where China's marriage laws fall short. For example, divorce can still be difficult and stigmatizing, particularly for women. Property division and child custody can also be contentious issues, particularly in cases where one spouse may be more powerful or financially secure than the other. There is also concern about the rise of so-called "love property" agreements, in which couples agree to specific financial and other arrangements in the event of divorce. While these agreements can provide some clarity and protection, they can also be seen as reflecting an overly transactional view of marriage and undermine the institution itself.

Overall, China's evolving approach to marriage law is a reflection of the country's rapidly changing society and its commitment to modernizing and adapting to new circumstances. While there is still progress to be made, the country's efforts to protect the rights of women and minorities within marriage are a positive step forward, and highlight the growing importance of marriage equality and gender equity on the global stage.