In 2020, around 28.8 percent of the global population were identified as Christian. Around 25.6 percent of the global population identify as Muslims, followed by 14.9 percent of global populations as Hindu. The number of Muslims increased by 347 million, when compared to 2010 data, more than all other religions combined.

As of 2010, Christianity was the religion with the most followers worldwide, followed by Islam (Muslims) and Hinduism. In the forty years between 2010 and 2050, it is projected that the landscape of world religions will undergo some noticeable changes, with the number of Muslims almost catching up to Christians. The changes in population sizes of each religious group is largely dependent on demographic development, for example, the rise in the world's Christian population will largely be driven by population growth in Sub-Saharan Africa, while Muslim populations will rise across various regions of Africa and South Asia. As India's population is set to grow while China's goes into decline, this will be reflected in the fact that Hindus will outnumber the unaffiliated by 2050. In fact, India may be home to both the largest Hindu and Muslim populations in the world by the middle of this century.

This statistic shows the share of world Christian population by selected countries worldwide in 2010. 11.3 percent of all Christians worldwide were living in the United States in 2010.

The World Religion Project (WRP) aims to provide detailed information about religious adherence worldwide since 1945. It contains data about the number of adherents by religion in each of the states in the international system. These numbers are given for every half-decade period (1945, 1950, etc., through 2010). Percentages of the states' populations that practice a given religion are also provided. (Note: These percentages are expressed as decimals, ranging from 0 to 1, where 0 indicates that 0 percent of the population practices a given religion and 1 indicates that 100 percent of the population practices that religion.) Some of the religions (as detailed below) are divided into religious families. To the extent data are available, the breakdown of adherents within a given religion into religious families is also provided.

The project was developed in three stages. The first stage consisted of the formation of a religion tree. A religion tree is a systematic classification of major religions and of religious families within those major religions. To develop the religion tree we prepared a comprehensive literature review, the aim of which was (i) to define a religion, (ii) to find tangible indicators of a given religion of religious families within a major religion, and (iii) to identify existing efforts at classifying world religions. (Please see the original survey instrument to view the structure of the religion tree.) The second stage consisted of the identification of major data sources of religious adherence and the collection of data from these sources according to the religion tree classification. This created a dataset that included multiple records for some states for a given point in time. It also contained multiple missing data for specific states, specific time periods and specific religions. The third stage consisted of cleaning the data, reconciling discrepancies of information from different sources and imputing data for the missing cases.

The Global Religion Dataset: This dataset uses a religion-by-five-year unit. It aggregates the number of adherents of a given religion and religious group globally by five-year periods.

This statistic shows the Denomination of the Christian population worldwide by major traditions in 2010. About 50 percent of all Christians are Catholics.

The average for 2013 based on 84 countries was 43.2 percent. The highest value was in Poland: 95.2 percent and the lowest value was in Ethiopia: 0.6 percent. The indicator is available from 1960 to 2013. Below is a chart for all countries where data are available.

Census: Population: by Religion: Christian: Sikkim: Male data was reported at 30,290.000 Person in 03-01-2011. This records an increase from the previous number of 18,428.000 Person for 03-01-2001. Census: Population: by Religion: Christian: Sikkim: Male data is updated decadal, averaging 24,359.000 Person from Mar 2001 (Median) to 03-01-2011, with 2 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 30,290.000 Person in 03-01-2011 and a record low of 18,428.000 Person in 03-01-2001. Census: Population: by Religion: Christian: Sikkim: Male data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India. The data is categorized under India Premium Database’s Demographic – Table IN.GAE004: Census: Population: by Religion: Christian.

Christianity is the major religion in numerous African countries. As of 2024, around 96 percent of the population of Zambia was Christian, representing the highest percentage on the continent. Seychelles and Rwanda followed with roughly 95 percent and 94 percent of the population being Christian, respectively. While these countries present the highest percentages, Christianity was also prevalent in many other African nations. For instance, in South Africa, Christianity was the religion of nearly 85 percent of the people, while the share corresponded to 71 percent in Ghana. Religious variations across Africa Christianity and Islam are the most practiced religions in Africa. Christian adherents are prevalent below the Sahara, while North Africa is predominantly Muslim. In 2020, Christians accounted for around 60 percent of the Sub-Saharan African population, followed by Muslims with a share of roughly 30 percent. In absolute terms, there were approximately 650 million Christians in the region, a number forecast to increase to over one billion by 2050. In contrast, Islam is most prevalent in North Africa, being the religion of over 90 percent of the population in Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, and Libya. Christianity in the world As opposed to other religions, Christianity is widely spread across continents worldwide. In fact, Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, and Europe each account for around 25 percent of the global Christian population. By comparison, Asia-Pacific and North America make up 13 percent and 12 percent of Christians worldwide, respectively. In several regions, Christians also suffer persecution on religious grounds. Somalia and Libya presented the most critical situation in Africa in 2021, reporting the strongest suppression of Christians worldwide just after North Korea and Afghanistan.

Census: Population: by Religion: Christian: Tripura: Male data was reported at 81,480.000 Person in 03-01-2011. This records an increase from the previous number of 52,815.000 Person for 03-01-2001. Census: Population: by Religion: Christian: Tripura: Male data is updated decadal, averaging 67,147.500 Person from Mar 2001 (Median) to 03-01-2011, with 2 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 81,480.000 Person in 03-01-2011 and a record low of 52,815.000 Person in 03-01-2001. Census: Population: by Religion: Christian: Tripura: Male data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India. The data is categorized under India Premium Database’s Demographic – Table IN.GAE004: Census: Population: by Religion: Christian.

Poland: Christians as percent of the total population: The latest value from 2013 is 98.5 percent, an increase from 98.3 percent in 2012. In comparison, the world average is 51.1 percent, based on data from 145 countries. Historically, the average for Poland from 1960 to 2013 is 94.3 percent. The minimum value, 89.9 percent, was reached in 1960 while the maximum of 98.5 percent was recorded in 2013.

Census: Population: by Religion: Christian: Madhya Pradesh: Female data was reported at 107,985.000 Person in 03-01-2011. This records an increase from the previous number of 85,025.000 Person for 03-01-2001. Census: Population: by Religion: Christian: Madhya Pradesh: Female data is updated decadal, averaging 96,505.000 Person from Mar 2001 (Median) to 03-01-2011, with 2 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 107,985.000 Person in 03-01-2011 and a record low of 85,025.000 Person in 03-01-2001. Census: Population: by Religion: Christian: Madhya Pradesh: Female data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India. The data is categorized under India Premium Database’s Demographic – Table IN.GAE004: Census: Population: by Religion: Christian.

Bible Study Software Market Outlook

The global Bible Study Software market size was valued at approximately USD 600 million in 2023 and is projected to reach around USD 1 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.5% during the forecast period. The growth of this market is primarily driven by the increasing digitization and the growing popularity of digital religious materials among various user groups.

A significant factor contributing to the growth of the Bible Study Software market is the widespread adoption of digital tools for religious education and personal study. As technology becomes more integrated into daily life, religious communities are increasingly turning to software solutions to facilitate Bible study, making these tools indispensable. Digital platforms offer a variety of features such as search functionalities, cross-referencing, and multimedia integration, which enhance the overall study experience and make the text more accessible to users of all ages and backgrounds.

Additionally, the surge in remote learning and virtual gatherings, spurred by global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, has further accelerated the demand for Bible study software. Churches and educational institutions have had to adapt to new modes of teaching and community building, which has led to an increased reliance on digital solutions. This transition not only supports regular study but also fosters a sense of community among users who may be geographically dispersed, thus driving market growth.

Increasing smartphone penetration and internet accessibility are also crucial drivers for the Bible Study Software market. With a significant portion of the global population now owning smartphones and having consistent internet access, mobile and web-based applications for Bible study have seen a steep rise in usage. These platforms offer convenience and flexibility, allowing users to engage with religious texts anytime and anywhere, which is particularly appealing to younger demographics who are accustomed to digital media consumption.

Regionally, North America holds the largest share of the Bible Study Software market, driven by a high rate of technological adoption and a strong Christian demographic. Europe follows closely, with a growing interest in digital religious resources. Meanwhile, the Asia Pacific region is anticipated to witness the fastest growth during the forecast period, owing to the increasing Christian population and rapid digitization in countries such as South Korea, India, and the Philippines. The Middle East & Africa and Latin America are also showing promising signs of growth, albeit at a slower pace compared to other regions.

Platform Analysis

The Bible Study Software market is segmented by platform into Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Web-based. The Windows segment currently dominates the market, largely due to the widespread use of personal computers running on Windows OS in homes, churches, and academic institutions. Windows-based software offers robust functionalities, including advanced search options, complex note-taking abilities, and seamless integration with other software, making it a preferred choice for serious Bible scholars and educators.

Mac users, although a smaller segment, represent a growing market share. The appeal of Mac-based Bible study software lies in its user-friendly interface and the seamless integration with other Apple products. The increasing popularity of Mac computers in academic and professional settings contributes to the growth of this segment. Developers are increasingly focusing on creating high-quality, Mac-compatible Bible study tools to cater to this niche but growing user base.

The iOS and Android segments are witnessing significant growth, driven by the proliferation of smartphones and tablets. Mobile-based Bible study applications offer unparalleled convenience, enabling users to study on the go. These apps often include features such as verse-of-the-day notifications, audio Bibles, and social sharing capabilities, which enhance user engagement and retention. Given the global trend toward mobile internet usage, the iOS and Android segments are expected to continue growing rapidly.

Web-based platforms are also gaining traction, particularly among users who prefer not to download software. These platforms offer flexibility and accessibility from any device with internet connectivity, making them an attractive option for occasional users and those who prioritize cross-device compatibility. Web-based

The USA: Christians as percent of the total population: The latest value from 2013 is 76 percent, a decline from 76.3 percent in 2012. In comparison, the world average is 51.1 percent, based on data from 145 countries. Historically, the average for the USA from 1960 to 2013 is 82.8 percent. The minimum value, 76 percent, was reached in 2013 while the maximum of 89.6 percent was recorded in 1960.

From 2022 to 2060, the worldwide population of Muslims is expected to increase by **** percent. For the same period, the global population of Buddhists is expected to decrease by **** percent.

The average for 2013 based on 78 countries was 22.7 percent. The highest value was in Denmark: 87.3 percent and the lowest value was in Belgium: 0.1 percent. The indicator is available from 1960 to 2013. Below is a chart for all countries where data are available.

Census: Population: by Religion: Christian: Uttarakhand data was reported at 37,781.000 Person in 03-01-2011. This records an increase from the previous number of 27,116.000 Person for 03-01-2001. Census: Population: by Religion: Christian: Uttarakhand data is updated decadal, averaging 32,448.500 Person from Mar 2001 (Median) to 03-01-2011, with 2 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 37,781.000 Person in 03-01-2011 and a record low of 27,116.000 Person in 03-01-2001. Census: Population: by Religion: Christian: Uttarakhand data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India. The data is categorized under India Premium Database’s Demographic – Table IN.GAE004: Census: Population: by Religion: Christian.

Germany: Christians as percent of the total population: The latest value from 2013 is 71.4 percent, a decline from 71.8 percent in 2012. In comparison, the world average is 51.1 percent, based on data from 145 countries. Historically, the average for Germany from 1960 to 2013 is 83.1 percent. The minimum value, 71.4 percent, was reached in 2013 while the maximum of 95.1 percent was recorded in 1960.

Census: Population: by Religion: Christian: Sikkim data was reported at 60,522.000 Person in 03-01-2011. This records an increase from the previous number of 36,115.000 Person for 03-01-2001. Census: Population: by Religion: Christian: Sikkim data is updated decadal, averaging 48,318.500 Person from Mar 2001 (Median) to 03-01-2011, with 2 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 60,522.000 Person in 03-01-2011 and a record low of 36,115.000 Person in 03-01-2001. Census: Population: by Religion: Christian: Sikkim data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India. The data is categorized under India Premium Database’s Demographic – Table IN.GAE004: Census: Population: by Religion: Christian.

Census: Population: by Religion: Christian: Maharashtra data was reported at 1,080,073.000 Person in 03-01-2011. This records an increase from the previous number of 1,058,313.000 Person for 03-01-2001. Census: Population: by Religion: Christian: Maharashtra data is updated decadal, averaging 1,069,193.000 Person from Mar 2001 (Median) to 03-01-2011, with 2 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1,080,073.000 Person in 03-01-2011 and a record low of 1,058,313.000 Person in 03-01-2001. Census: Population: by Religion: Christian: Maharashtra data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India. The data is categorized under India Premium Database’s Demographic – Table IN.GAE004: Census: Population: by Religion: Christian.

Islam and Christianity form the two dominant religions in Nigeria. Since colonialism, approximately 90 percent of the Nigerian people identify themselves as Islamic or Christian. The northern region of Nigeria is predominately Islamic, while the southern region is predominately Christian.

Nigeria’s contact with Islam predated that of Christianity and European colonialism; its spread was facilitated into Sub-Saharan Africa through trade and commerce. The northern part of Nigeria is symbolic to the history of Islam, as it penetrated the area through the Kanem-Borno Empire in the 11th century before spreading to other predominately Hausa states. Islam was then introduced into the traditional societies of the Yoruba-speaking people of south-west Nigeria through their established commercial relationship with people of the north, particularly the Nupe and Fulani.

Christianity reached Nigeria in the 15th century with the visitation of Catholic missionaries to the coastal areas of the Niger-Delta region. Christianity soon recorded a boost in the southern region given its opposition to the slave trade and its promotion of Western education.

The distinct religious divide has instigated violence in present-day Nigeria, including the Sharia riot in Kaduna in 2000, ongoing ethno-religious violence in Jos since 2001, and the 2011 post-election violence that erupted in some northern states, particularly in the city of Maiduguri. Nigerians’ continued loyalty to religion compared to that of the country continues to sustain major political debate, conflict, and violent outbreaks between populations of the two faiths.

ISO3-International Organization for Standardization 3-digit country code

NAME-Name of religious institution

TYPE-Type of religious institution

CITY-City religious institution is located in

SPA_ACC-Spatial accuracy of site location 1- high, 2 – medium, 3 - low

SOURCE_DT-Source creation date

SOURCE-Primary source

SOURCE2_DT-Secondary source creation date

SOURCE2-Secondary source

Collection

This HGIS was created using information collected from the web sites GCatholic.org, Islamic Finder, Wikimapia, and BBBike.org, which uses OpenStreetMap, a crowd-source collaboration project that geo-locates sites throughout the world. After collection, all education institutions were geo-located.

The data included herein have not been derived from a registered survey and should be considered approximate unless otherwise defined. While rigorous steps have been taken to ensure the quality of each dataset, DigitalGlobe Analytics is not responsible for the accuracy and completeness of data compiled from outside sources.

Sources (HGIS)

BBBike, "Nigeria." Last modified 2013. Accessed March 19, 2013. http://extract.bbbike.org.

GCatholic.org, "Catholic Churches in Federal Republic of Nigeria." Last modified 2013. Accessed April 4, 2013. http://www.gcatholic.org/.

Islamic Finder, "Nigeria." Last modified 2013. Accessed April 4, 2013. http://islamicfinder.org/.

Olanrewaju, Timothy. The Sun, "oko Haram attacks church in Maiduguri." Last modified 2013. Accessed April 9, 2013. http://sunnewsonline.com/.

Wikimapia, "Nigeria:Mosques/Churches." Last modified 2013. Accessed April 4, 2013. http://wikimapia.org/

World Watch Monitor, "Muslim Threat to Attack Church Raises Tensions." Last modified 2012. Accessed April 9, 2013. http://www.worldwatchmonitor.org/.

Sources (Metadata)

Danjibo, N.D. "Islamic Fundamentalism and Sectarian Violence: The "Maitatsine" and "Boko Haram" Crises in Northern Nigeria." manuscript., University of Ibadan, 2010. http://www.ifra-nigeria.org.

Olanrewaju, Timothy. The Sun, "oko Haram attacks church in Maiduguri." Last modified 2013. Accessed April 9, 2013. http://sunnewsonline.com/.

Onapajo, Hakeem. "Politics for God: Religion, Politics, and Conflict in Democratic Nigeria." Journal of Pan African Studies. 4. no. 9 (2012): 42-66. http://web.ebscohost.com (accessed March 26, 2013).

World Watch Monitor, "Muslim Threat to Attack Church Raises Tensions." Last modified 2012. Accessed April 9, 2013. http://www.worldwatchmonitor.org/.