The global population of Buddhists is projected to slightly increase up until the year 2030, at which point it will begin a gradual decline. In terms of its share of total world population, however, Buddhism has already seen a decline from over seven percent in 2010, with this being projected to decline further to close to five percent in 2050. This decline is related to Buddhism being popular in countries whose populations are in a natural decline, such as Japan or South Korea (and Thailand in the near future), as well as demographic developments in countries that have a policy of state atheism, such as China or Vietnam.While this decline in its traditional regions of influence in East and Southeast Asia will cause an aggregate fall in the number of Buddhists, there is likely to be some growth in other regions of the globe, such as Western European and North American countries, where the popularity of the ideas of Buddhism have grown in influence in recent decades.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Buddhist Supply market size will be USD 12654.2 million in 2024. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.60% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market share for more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 5061.6 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.8% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 3796.2 million.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 2910.4 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.6% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America had a market share of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 632.7 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.0% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa had a market share of around 2% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 253.0 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.3% from 2024 to 2031.
The Buddha Statue Type segment held the highest Buddhist Supply market revenue share in 2024.

Market Dynamics of Buddhist Supply Market

Key Drivers for Buddhist Supply Market

Expanding Worldwide Interest in Buddhism to Increase the Demand Globally

The growing interest in Buddhism has heightened the demand for essential materials such as statues, prayer beads, incense, and ritual objects. This interest surge is driven by the increased accessibility and appeal of Buddhist philosophies globally, facilitated by extensive travel and cultural exchanges. As per 2020 census data, 31.1 percent of the four million citizens and permanent residents identify as Buddhist. The Pew Research Center estimates a worldwide Buddhist population of around 488 million.

Growth of Mindfulness and Meditation Practices to Propel Market Growth

Mindfulness and meditation, integral to Buddhist practice, have surged in popularity due to their recognized mental health benefits. This trend has directly increased the demand for Buddhist supplies. The proliferation of books and digital applications focusing on mindfulness techniques rooted in Buddhism has fueled the need for educational materials and resources. In 2019, the top 10 meditation apps collectively generated $195 million in sales. Calm emerged as the leading meditation app in 2020 with 5.26 million downloads, followed by Headspace with 2.08 million downloads, and Meditopia with 1.89 million downloads. Fitbit reported a staggering 2,900% average rise in meditation logs across all age groups of its global users.

Restraint Factor for the Buddhist Supply Market

Cultural Sensitivity and Appropriation to Limit the Sales

The commercialization of Buddhist supplies can raise concerns regarding cultural sensitivity and appropriation. Misusing sacred Buddhist symbols and items, or placing them out of context, can provoke backlash from religious communities. The commercialization of spiritual and religious goods may be perceived negatively by both adherents and non-adherents, potentially reducing demand. A significant factor contributing to the market decline is the growing disconnection of young people from spiritual paths. This trend restricts supply growth, projecting these challenges to limit market expansion during the forecast period. Over time, efforts to address these issues are expected to mitigate their impact. Resolving these challenges could catalyze market recovery and growth in the future.

Key Trends for Buddhist Supply Market

The Digitalization of Buddhist Practices via E-Commerce and Virtual Platforms

The increasing accessibility of Buddhist supplies through online retail channels is revolutionizing the way consumers worldwide obtain spiritual products. From incense and mala beads to e-books and online temple services, e-commerce has allowed global customers to discover and acquire Buddhist supplies irrespective of their geographical location. Additionally, the popularity of virtual meditation classes and live-streamed ceremonies has surged, leading to a heightened demand for digitally integrated products, including app-compatible prayer devices and subscription-based Dharma content.

Eco-Conscious and Ethical Production on the Rise

As sustainability emerges as a fundamental value amon...

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.

Emerald Buddha Statue Market Outlook

The global market size for Emerald Buddha statues in 2023 is estimated to be around USD 1.2 billion, with a forecasted market size of approximately USD 2.1 billion by 2032, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.8%. This market is experiencing substantial growth due to increasing interest in art and culture, the rising popularity of spiritual and religious artifacts, and the expanding middle-class population globally.

One of the primary growth factors driving the Emerald Buddha statue market is the rising global interest in cultural and spiritual artifacts. These statues are not only revered in Buddhist communities but have also found a place in homes and museums worldwide due to their exquisite craftsmanship and cultural significance. This growing appreciation for art and culture is encouraging people to invest in such symbolic artifacts, thus propelling market growth.

Another significant factor contributing to the market's expansion is the rising disposable income and evolving lifestyle preferences across various regions. With an increase in disposable income, consumers are more willing to spend on luxury and aesthetic items, including religious and spiritual artifacts like Emerald Buddha statues. Furthermore, the growing trend of home decor that integrates cultural and spiritual elements is also driving the demand for these statues.

The advancements in e-commerce and the increasing penetration of online retail platforms are further bolstering the market. Consumers can now access a wide variety of Emerald Buddha statues from the comfort of their homes, with detailed descriptions and images enhancing their shopping experience. This ease of shopping, combined with the availability of various designs and price ranges, is making these artifacts more accessible to a broader audience, thereby contributing to market growth.

Regionally, the Asia Pacific region dominates the Emerald Buddha statue market, driven by countries like Thailand, China, and India, where Buddhism has a deep-rooted cultural and religious significance. However, North America and Europe are also witnessing a steady rise in demand due to increasing interest in Asian art and culture, coupled with the growing number of Buddhist practitioners and spiritual seekers in these regions. The Middle East & Africa and Latin America are emerging markets, showing potential for growth as awareness and appreciation for such cultural artifacts increase.

In addition to the Emerald Buddha statues, the market for Four Treasures of the Study Sales is also witnessing a surge in interest. These treasures, which include the brush, ink, paper, and inkstone, are essential tools in traditional Chinese calligraphy and painting. The growing appreciation for Asian art and culture has led to an increased demand for these items, both as functional tools and as collectible artifacts. Collectors and enthusiasts are drawn to the historical significance and craftsmanship of the Four Treasures, often seeking out unique and high-quality pieces to add to their collections. The market for these treasures is expanding beyond Asia, with significant interest emerging in North America and Europe, where cultural exchange and appreciation for traditional arts are on the rise.

Material Analysis

The Emerald Buddha statue market is segmented by material into jade, glass, resin, and others. Jade remains the most revered material for these statues due to its historical and cultural significance. Jade statues are highly prized for their beauty, durability, and the spiritual significance of jade in Asian cultures. The demand for jade Buddha statues is particularly strong in regions with a rich Buddhist heritage, where they are often considered sacred and are used in temples and religious ceremonies.

Glass Emerald Buddha statues are also gaining popularity, especially among modern collectors and decorators who appreciate the sleek, transparent look of glass. These statues are often more affordable than their jade counterparts, making them accessible to a broader audience. The versatility of glass as a material allows for a wide range of designs and finishes, appealing to contemporary tastes and preferences in home decor.

Resin is another material used in the production of Emerald Buddha statues, offering a cost-effective alternative to jade and glass. Resin statues are ligh

Buddhist Supplies Market Outlook

The global Buddhist supplies market size was valued at approximately USD 1.8 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 2.8 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.1% during the forecast period. This growth is driven by a rising interest in spiritual and wellness practices worldwide, as well as increasing demand for culturally authentic products. The expanding global interest in Buddhism, coupled with the growth of disposable incomes in developing regions, is propelling this market forward. As more individuals seek mindfulness and spiritual balance in their hectic lives, the market for Buddhist supplies has become a thriving niche.

One of the primary growth factors for the Buddhist supplies market is the growing global awareness and practice of mindfulness and meditation. As modern life becomes increasingly stressful, many individuals are turning to meditation as a means to improve mental health and achieve personal tranquility. This trend is particularly prominent in urban areas where stress levels are high, and people have more disposable income to spend on wellness products. This shift towards mindfulness has driven demand for products such as meditation cushions, mala beads, and incense, which are integral components of Buddhist meditation practices. As people become more health-conscious, their interest in holistic and spiritual well-being has contributed significantly to the demand for Buddhist supplies.

Another factor that fuels the growth of the Buddhist supplies market is the increasing popularity of Buddhism beyond its traditional geographic boundaries. More individuals from diverse backgrounds are embracing Buddhist philosophies, resulting in a surge in demand for related products. This is not only apparent in traditionally Buddhist regions but also in Western countries where Buddhism is often viewed as a philosophy rather than a religion. The spread of Buddhism into new cultural territories has been facilitated by the internet, which offers a platform for learning and purchasing, thereby expanding the accessibility of Buddhist supplies. As more people engage with Buddhist teachings and practices, the demand for authentic supplies that enhance these experiences continues to rise.

The rise of e-commerce platforms has also significantly contributed to the growth of the Buddhist supplies market. Online retail has opened new avenues for consumers to access a wide range of Buddhist products, from mala beads to large statues. The convenience of online shopping, combined with the ability to source unique and authentic items from different parts of the world, has made e-commerce a preferred channel for many consumers. This trend is particularly significant in regions where authentic Buddhist supplies are hard to find in physical stores. As consumers become more digitally savvy, the online distribution channel is expected to continue growing, further driving the market's expansion.

In addition to the traditional Buddhist supplies, there is a growing interest in Lotus Products Sales, which are becoming increasingly popular among consumers seeking spiritual and aesthetic value. Lotus products, often associated with purity and enlightenment in Buddhist symbolism, include items such as lotus candles, lotus incense holders, and lotus-themed jewelry. These products not only serve as spiritual tools but also as decorative elements that enhance the ambiance of meditation spaces and homes. The demand for lotus products is driven by their symbolic significance and their ability to convey a sense of peace and tranquility. As consumers continue to explore new ways to incorporate spirituality into their daily lives, the market for lotus products is expected to expand, offering opportunities for manufacturers and retailers to innovate and diversify their offerings.

Regionally, the Asia Pacific holds the largest market share for Buddhist supplies, attributable to its historical and cultural roots in Buddhism. However, North America is emerging as a significant market due to the increasing interest in mindfulness and meditation practices in the region. Europe is also seeing steady growth, driven by cultural curiosity and the adoption of wellness practices. The Middle East & Africa and Latin America are expected to witness moderate growth, as Buddhism gains gradual acceptance and interest in these regions. The expansion of e-commerce and the global reach of cultural products are paving the way for increased market penetration across different continents.

The majority of Japanese adhere to Shintoism, a traditional Japanese religion focusing on rituals and worship at shrines. In 2021, around 48.6 percent of the total population of Japan participated in Shinto practices. Closely behind is Buddhism, with more than 46 percent of the population adhering to its practices. Most Japanese thus practice both religions. The original ShintoShintoism adherents worship spirits or gods at shrines, often publicly, through rituals and traditions. Shintoism is deeply ingrained in the Japanese culture and way of life, but the number of followers has been decreasing over the past years, as has the number of Japanese who are adhering to any kind of religion. Tradition seems to have to make way for modern attitudes and choices – still the number of people who call themselves Shinto adherents is quite high, even if they do not actively practice it. Everything zen in BuddhismWhile Shintoism seems to become a thing of the past, the number of Buddhists, on the other hand, has been stable over the last decade, and if anything, has only slightly decreased. Japan is, in fact, among the countries with the largest Buddhist communities, right after China, of course, and Thailand. This might be due to Buddhism being able to adapt much easier to modern times and its adherents’ everyday lives, as well as a better PR machine – Buddhism is, after all, also quite popular in the Western world.

Yoga Equipment Sales Market Outlook

The global yoga equipment sales market size was valued at approximately USD 11.2 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 18.5 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 5.5% during the forecast period. This market's growth can be attributed to the increasing awareness of the health benefits of yoga, a rising number of yoga practitioners, and the expanding popularity of yoga as a lifestyle choice.

One of the critical factors driving the growth of the yoga equipment sales market is the growing awareness about the health benefits associated with practicing yoga. Yoga is increasingly recognized for its holistic approach to health, incorporating mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. This comprehensive health advantage has led to a surge in the number of yoga practitioners worldwide, fueling the demand for specialized yoga equipment such as mats, blocks, and straps. The increasing prevalence of lifestyle-related disorders and chronic diseases also promotes yoga as a preventative and therapeutic measure, further enhancing market growth.

Another significant growth driver is the rise of fitness culture and wellness trends across different demographics. Millennials and Generation Z, in particular, are more inclined towards maintaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle. The influence of social media platforms has considerably boosted the visibility and popularity of yoga, with numerous influencers and celebrities endorsing its benefits. This cultural shift towards fitness and wellness is creating a sustained demand for yoga equipment, as people invest in quality products to enhance their practice and adhere to this lifestyle trend.

The proliferation of yoga studios, retreats, and wellness centers also plays a crucial role in the market's expansion. These commercial entities often require bulk purchases of yoga equipment to cater to their clientele, thus driving up sales. Additionally, the increasing adoption of corporate wellness programs, which frequently include yoga sessions, has contributed to the market's growth. Companies are recognizing the importance of employee well-being and are investing in yoga equipment to facilitate these programs, thereby bolstering market growth.

In addition to the growing demand for yoga equipment, there is an increasing interest in Buddhist Supplies as part of a holistic wellness approach. Many yoga practitioners are exploring the spiritual dimensions of their practice, which often leads them to incorporate elements of Buddhism into their routines. This includes the use of meditation cushions, incense, and prayer beads, which are commonly found in Buddhist Supplies. The integration of these items not only enhances the meditative aspect of yoga but also provides a deeper connection to mindfulness and inner peace. As more individuals seek to enrich their yoga experience with spiritual practices, the market for Buddhist Supplies is witnessing a parallel growth, offering a diverse range of products that cater to this expanding interest.

Regional outlook for the yoga equipment sales market shows that North America and Europe are currently leading in terms of market share. These regions have a well-established fitness culture, higher disposable incomes, and an extensive network of gyms and fitness centers. However, the Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth rate during the forecast period. This can be attributed to the growing popularity of yoga in countries like India, China, and Japan, where the practice is deeply rooted in cultural traditions and is experiencing a renaissance due to increased health consciousness among the population.

Product Type Analysis

Yoga Mats account for the largest share in the yoga equipment sales market. The demand for yoga mats is driven by their essential role in providing comfort, stability, and hygiene during yoga practice. Technological advancements have led to the development of mats with better grip, cushioning, and eco-friendly materials, which appeal to the environmentally conscious consumer. The market also offers a variety of mats catering to different preferences, such as travel mats, extra-thick mats, and mats designed for hot yoga, thereby broadening the consumer base and driving market growth.

Yoga Blocks are also witnessing significant demand as they enhance flexibility and provide support during various poses, particularly for beginners and those requiring modificati

The global temple economy, encompassing temple culture, tourism, religious services, and related products, presents a significant and expanding market. While precise market sizing data is unavailable, a reasonable estimation based on the growth of religious tourism and the increasing global interest in wellness and cultural experiences suggests a 2025 market value in the range of $15-20 billion USD. A conservative Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5-7% over the forecast period (2025-2033) is anticipated, driven by several factors. Firstly, the rising global population and increasing religious tourism contribute significantly to revenue generation. Secondly, the integration of technology and digital marketing in temple management and promotion enhances accessibility and attracts a wider audience. The growing interest in mindfulness, wellness retreats, and spiritual experiences fuels demand for health and wellness products linked to temple culture. Finally, infrastructure development around significant temple sites boosts tourism and contributes to economic growth within the sector. However, factors such as economic downturns, geopolitical instability, and the potential for environmental concerns can act as restraints on market growth. Segment analysis indicates that temple tourism and related cultural experiences hold substantial market share, with significant growth potential in Asia Pacific and increasingly in North America and Europe due to rising interest in cultural immersion and spiritual travel. This growth is fueled by diverse players, including temple management organizations, tourism companies (like Ctrip and Mafengwo), and producers of related goods (e.g., sandalwood products). Strategic partnerships between religious institutions and commercial entities are becoming increasingly common, enabling the development of sustainable and revenue-generating initiatives. Geographic segmentation reveals substantial growth potential across all regions, with significant opportunities in emerging economies exhibiting strong religious affiliation and growing middle-class populations. Nevertheless, challenges remain, including managing the environmental impact of increasing tourism, balancing commercial interests with the preservation of religious sanctity, and addressing cultural sensitivity. Focused market research and tailored strategies are crucial for players aiming to capitalize on this evolving and lucrative market.

In 2023, the number of Buddhist temples in Thailand reached approximately 43,500. This was a slight increase compared to the previous year. In that year, the northeastern region of the country had the highest number of Buddhist temples.

This dataset documents tree inventories associated with temples across various regions, collected as part of an ecological and cultural heritage survey conducted from June 2023 to December 2024. The data were gathered through field measurements and observations by a team of botanists and local temple caretakers. Tree height (in meters), diameter at breast height (in centimeters), and crown width (in meters) were measured using a combination of laser rangefinders (e.g., Nikon Forestry Pro II) and standard forestry calipers, with measurements taken during the growing season to ensure consistency. Species identification was confirmed by cross-referencing physical specimens with botanical records, and Latin names were assigned according to the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants (ICN). Data were compiled manually into spreadsheets and subsequently cleaned using Python scripts to standardize formatting and remove duplicates, ensuring accuracy for public use.The dataset covers a temporal scope from 2023 to 2024 and a geographical scope spanning multiple temple sites across distinct regions, though specific coordinates are generalized to location names (e.g., village or town) to protect site privacy. Spatial resolution varies by temple size, typically ranging from 0.5 to 5 hectares per site. The data are stored in a single tabular file with 1,245 entries, where each row represents an individual tree or tree cluster and columns include: temple name (寺庙), species (物种), Latin name (拉丁名), tree height in meters (树高/m), diameter at breast height in centimeters (胸径/cm), crown width in meters (冠幅/m), location (位置), number of trees (株数), ancient tree status (古树, denoted as "Yes" or "No"), and region (区域). Units are clearly specified in the column headers, and all measurements are reported in metric units.Errors in measurements are estimated at ±0.2 meters for height, ±1 centimeter for diameter, and ±0.5 meters for crown width, attributed to manual measurement variability and environmental factors like wind. The dataset is provided in a single xlsx. file, "Temple_Tree_Inventory.xlsx" (approximately 150 KB), containing all records in a widely accessible format.

The global religious tourism market, while exhibiting robust growth, lacks precise figures in the provided data. However, analyzing the provided segments and considering industry trends allows for a reasoned assessment. The market is significantly driven by increasing religious fervor globally, rising disposable incomes enabling more travel, and the growing popularity of faith-based experiences, including pilgrimages and retreats. Specific segments like pilgrimages to Mecca for Hajj and Umrah (Islam), visits to the Vatican City (Catholicism), and numerous Buddhist temple tours in Southeast Asia contribute massively to the overall market value. The age demographic plays a critical role, with the 30-50 year age group likely representing a substantial portion of travelers due to their established careers and disposable incomes. While the provided company list showcases significant players in the travel industry, many smaller, specialized religious tour operators also contribute to the market’s dynamism. Geographic distribution mirrors religious populations, with significant growth anticipated in Asia-Pacific regions due to their large and diverse religious populations. However, challenges exist, such as geopolitical instability impacting travel in certain regions, economic downturns potentially affecting travel budgets, and the need for sustainable tourism practices to preserve religious sites. Further influencing this market are trends in personalized travel experiences and the increasing use of technology in booking and information gathering. The rise of digital platforms and online travel agencies is streamlining the process, contributing to accessibility. However, challenges remain in catering to the diverse needs and expectations of various religious groups, particularly regarding cultural sensitivity and accessibility within religious sites. A significant area of potential expansion lies in fostering partnerships between religious organizations and travel companies to create tailored and authentic experiences that benefit both the traveler and the local communities. The market's future hinges on adapting to evolving traveler preferences and navigating the complexities of religious diversity and cultural sensitivity while promoting responsible and sustainable tourism practices. The forecast period (2025-2033) presents significant opportunities for growth, predicated on continued economic growth in many developing nations and sustained interest in faith-based tourism.

This graphic shows the forecasted number of Christians, Muslims, Jews, Hindus, Buddhists, religiously unaffiliated people, believers in folk religions and in other religions in France in 2022. With almost ** million people identifying themselves as Christians, Christianity was the most represented religion in France. Furthermore, about **** million people considered themselves religiously unaffiliated.

Substantial loss of nitrogen (N) in reactive forms (nitrogen species except for N2) induced by agro–food system is a cause of the environmental degradation and harms human health. The main factors influencing the food N footprint of the Indian Subcontinent (ISC) are the nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) of crop cultivation and religious dietary cultures. In this study, we assess the food N footprint of the ISC and establish reduction scenarios toward 2050. We used a religion-sensitive N-Calculator method and food consumption data from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations to estimate the food N footprint of the ISC of different religious communities. We developed four reduction scenarios as follows: The business-as-usual scenario; a 30% increase in the crop cultivation NUE; altered protein supplies to the healthy EAT–Lancet reference diet considering religious food taboos; and an integrated approach with a 30% increase in the NUE increase and the altered diet. We used the long short-term memory recurrent neural network approach to predict the future. The study revealed that the average food N footprint per-capita per-year increased from 7.94 kg-N in the 1960s to 8.43 kg-N in the early 2010s, and the crop cultivation NUE was reduced to less than 40%. Buddhists had the lowest footprint over the period. An increase in the NUE of the crop cultivation and an altered diet results in a 13% reduction in the N footprint compared to the business-as-usual scenario. We conclude that improved crop cultivation NUEs and an altered religion-specific healthy diet would reduce the N footprint.

According to a survey conducted in South Korea in 2023, over ** percent of respondents reported no religious affiliation, while approximately ** percent identified as Christians and ** percent as Buddhists. Religious population South Korea is a multi-religious society where Christianity, Buddhism, and various other religions coexist with shamanism. According to a previous study, the domestic religious population appeared to decline over time after reaching its peak in 2005, at nearly ** million people. In contrast, the share of people who are religiously unaffiliated has increased in recent years. Within the last two decades, the religiously unaffiliated population has increased from about ** percent to more than ** percent. Shamanism Shamanism has continued to significantly influence the daily lives of many South Koreans. According to a survey conducted in 2023, about ** percent of respondents reported having consulted a fortune-teller within the past year. Roughly ** percent of those respondents were already affiliated with a religion.

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.

When asked about their personal attitude towards various religions in Australia, ** percent of Australians surveyed had a negative attitude towards Muslims. Buddhists appeared to be least likely to elicit negative responses and around ** percent of respondents responded negatively to Christians.

 Islam in Australia

Muslims represent almost a quarter of the religious diversity in the Asia Pacific region and Australia’s neighbor, Indonesia, has the largest Muslim population in the world. In Australia, Islam is the second largest religious group but less than ***** percent of the population are Muslim, compared to over ** percent of the population identifying as Christian. The Australian Muslim community is very diverse, consisting of migrants from Bangladesh, Lebanon, Turkey, as well as Australian-born Muslims of European heritage.

 Australians increasingly less religious

The 2016 Australian census revealed that an ever-increasing number of Australians are selecting “no religion” in the optional census question on religious affiliation. This drop in religious affiliation is a common trend in many economically developed countries, although some of Australia’s minority religions like Islam and Buddhism are still showing some growth. In contrast, Christianity appears to be declining, especially amongst people under the age of **, an age group that also recorded higher numbers of people with no religion.

In the census data from Singapore in 2020, **** percent of the resident population claimed to be Buddhists. Singapore is a multi-religious society with five main religious groups: Buddhism, Taoism, Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity.

In 2023, over ** percent of Indonesians declared themselves to be Muslim, followed by *** percent who were Christians. Indonesia has the largest Islamic population in the world and for this reason is often recognized as a Muslim nation. However, Indonesia is not a Muslim nation according to its constitution. The archipelago is a multifaith country and officially recognizes six religions – Islam, Protestantism, Catholicism, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Confucianism. Not all provinces in Indonesia are Muslim majority The spread of Islam in Indonesia began on the west side of the archipelago, where the main maritime trade routes were located. Until today, most of the Indonesian Muslim population are residing in Western and Central Indonesia, while the majority religion of several provinces in Eastern Indonesia, such as East Nusa Tenggara and Bali, is Christian and Hindu, respectively. Discrimination towards other beliefs in Indonesia The Indonesian constitution provides for freedom of religion. However, the Government Restrictions Index Score on religion in Indonesia is relatively high. Indonesians who practice unrecognized religions, including Indonesia’s indigenous or traditional belief systems, such as animism, dynamism, and totemism, face legal restrictions and discrimination. Indonesian law requires its citizens to put one of the recognized religions on their national identity cards, with some exceptions for indigenous religions. Although legally citizens may leave the section blank, atheism or agnosticism is considered uncommon in Indonesia.

In 2021, 53.3 percent of the total population in Canada were Christian, 4.9 percent were Muslim, but almost more than a third are not religious at all – with the rest stating they adhere to Hinduism, Sikhism, Buddhism, the Jewish faith, and other Christian denominations. Canada’s religious pluralismCanada is not a very religious country in general. Canadians adhere to a wide variety of beliefs and faiths, with the majority following Christianity, followed by those who do not believe in any deity or religion at all. As with many Western countries, the younger generations are less inclined to identify with faith, and Christianity in particular is not as popular as it is among the older generations. Alternative worship for the younger generations?Canadian teenagers are no less enthusiastic about religion than their parents, and they are just as grounded in their faith as the older generations. They are, however, also just as indecisive when it comes to whether they would call themselves religious or not. Interestingly, they seem much more interested in traditional aboriginal spirituality than in the Judeo-Christian model. They also seem quite interested in another alternative to Christianity: Buddhism is quite popular among the younger generations. Whether this signifies a general trend away from Christianity and towards religious alternatives remains to be seen.