In Albania, propotion of Muslims falls below half over past decade

Albanian Orthodox Christians during a procession in honor of Theophany. Photo: orthochristian.com

According to the results of the latest population census, the number of Muslims in Albania has decreased to 45.7%, marking the first time in more than two centuries that the country no longer has a Muslim majority. As reported by the UOJ-USA, the new statistical indicators testify to a serious shift in the nation's religious identity.

The share of Muslims has noticeably fallen compared to 2011, when this indicator was 56.7%. Observers note that the current figures may reflect society's return to deep historical roots. Historically, Albania became a predominantly Islamic country after joining the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century, although before that the regional population was mainly Christian.

At the same time, the Orthodox Church of Albania provided its own data, which differs significantly from the results of the state survey. According to baptismal records and parish books, Orthodox Christians may constitute more than 24% of the country's population.

Church representatives emphasized that the state census relies exclusively on citizens' self-identification at the time of the survey, while the church methodology takes into account the actual number of faithful through the sacraments.

Earlier, the UOJ wrote that Christians now make up less than half of France’s population.

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