Religious practice in Europe has declined over the past decade, according to Pew Research Center data. Between 2010 and 2020, the share of Christians in Europe dropped from 74% to 67%, and countries such as France and the United Kingdom lost their Christian majority. Meanwhile, the number of people with no religious affiliation grew faster than any other group, increasing by about 37%. The study also showed Jewish populations declined, while smaller faith groups like Hindus and Muslims grew modestly in absolute numbers.
This shift is part of a broader global trend. Atheism, the belief that there is no God, has been on the rise worldwide. But what does this mean for different cultures and societies? Is it simply a rejection of religion, or something more complex?
Recent studies show that, from the staunchly secular nations of Europe to the spiritually rich cultures of Asia, the landscape of atheism varies widely. One key finding suggests that nonbelief in God does not necessarily rule out belief in other supernatural phenomena, as many atheists and agnostics still express some form of supernatural belief.
From historical to societal and technological shifts, click through this gallery to uncover what could be driving people across the globe away from traditional ideas of religion.