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The Astonishing Growth of Islam: Why is this religion expanding so rapidly?
As of 2020, the number of followers of Islam worldwide reached approximately 1.9 billion, making it the second largest and fastest growing major religious group in the world. According to Pew Research Center projections, reasons for this growth can be attributed to high birth rates as well as faith acceptance and conversion worldwide. This makes people wonder, what driving factors are hidden behind the development of this religion?
Global distribution
Islam has followers all over the world, with 87% to 90% of Muslims belonging to Sunni sect and 10% to 13% belonging to Shia sect. The world's largest Muslim population is concentrated in the Asia-Pacific region, where the total number of Muslims has exceeded one billion, accounting for 62% of the world's total Muslim population. There are more Muslims in the region than in the Middle East and North Africa combined.
"The expansion of Islam throughout the world demonstrates the power of religious belief and the potential for cultural integration."
Demographics and Regional Growth
According to data, South Asia has the largest Muslim population in the world, with about one-third of Muslims coming from this region. Especially in India, the number of Muslims exceeds 200 million, making it the third largest Muslim country in the world after Muslim-majority countries. In addition, Nigeria and Egypt have Muslim populations of 5.3% and 4.9% respectively, ranking among the highest in Africa.
Growth factors
This growth is largely attributed to several factors, including generally higher fertility rates among families and the spread of the faith. According to research, Muslims have the lowest average age of all religions, meaning the Muslim population will continue to grow steadily over the coming decades. Improved medical conditions, extended life expectancy and reduced infant mortality have also contributed to the growth of the Muslim community.
"Looking to the future, the Muslim community is likely to occupy an even more important position in the global population."
Growth in the Middle East and Africa
The Middle East and Africa are forecast to be the focus of future Muslim population growth, although growth may slow in some regions. Pakistan, in particular, is expected to have the largest Muslim population by 2030.
Future Outlook
According to another updated study, Islam’s proportion of the global population is expected to reach 26.3% in 2030. In Europe, the proportion of the Muslim population is expected to reach 8%. Much of this growth will be driven by immigration flows, particularly in Western European countries.
“As immigration rises, Islam is reshaping the religious landscape of the global population.”
Conclusion
Although future data projections may be adjusted due to social changes, it is clear that the influence of Islam in today's world is growing suddenly. This is not only the spread of faith, but also the result of cultural collision and integration. We need to reflect on what impact religious beliefs have on our lives and society in this changing era.
