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11 June, 2025 : A recent study highlights significant changes in the global religious demographic over the past decade. Christianity remains the largest religion, with 2.3 billion followers, maintaining its dominant position. However, the most striking trends include the rapid growth of Islam, a notable rise in the non-religious population, and a decline in Buddhist adherents.
Islam has emerged as a key player in the global religious landscape, not only due to natural population growth but also through conversions and cultural influence. The non-religious population has surged to 2 billion, marking an increase of 270 million since 2010, signaling a growing trend of secularism and religious disaffiliation that could reshape the global religious map in the coming decade.
Hinduism, the third-largest religion, has 1.2 billion followers, with an increase of 126 million over the past decade, though its global share remains unchanged. Buddhism stands out as the only major religion to experience a decline, losing 18.6 million followers, with its global share dropping from 5% to 4%. Judaism saw a modest increase of 1 million adherents, while other religions, including Sikhism and Baha’i, collectively account for about 200 million followers, representing 2.2% of the world’s population.
These trends suggest a dynamic shift in global religious affiliations, with Islam and secularism gaining ground while traditional religions like Buddhism face challenges. The rise of the non-religious population could have profound implications for cultural and social dynamics in the future.
AI/MR
