Top 10 Atheist Countries in World

Are you looking for the Top 10 Atheist Countries in World? Check the Full Ranking of Atheist Countries in World. Determining the “Top 10 Atheist Countries” can be somewhat subjective and challenging due to varying methodologies in gathering data on religious affiliation, as well as cultural and social factors influencing individual expressions of atheism. However, we can make a general estimation based on available data. Here’s a list of countries where atheism or non-religiosity tends to be more prevalent:

1. China

China is often considered one of the countries with a significant population of atheists or non-religious individuals. The Chinese Communist Party, which has governed China since 1949, officially promotes atheism as part of its ideology. During the Cultural Revolution (1966-1976), religious practices were heavily suppressed, leading to a decline in religious affiliation across the country. Even though there has been some relaxation in policies regarding religion in recent years, atheism remains prevalent in China, particularly among the urban population and intellectuals.

However, it’s important to note that while atheism may be widespread in China, there are also adherents to various religions, including Buddhism, Taoism, Christianity, and Islam, especially in certain regions of the country. Therefore, while atheism may be prominent, it’s not the only worldview present in China. So, it it in the 1st position in the ranking of top 10 atheist countries in the world.

2. Japan

Japan is another country where atheism or non-religiosity is relatively common. While Japan has a rich cultural and religious heritage, including Shintoism and Buddhism, many Japanese people do not actively practice these religions in a traditional sense. Instead, a significant portion of the population identifies as atheist, agnostic, or non-religious.

Several factors contribute to the prevalence of atheism or non-religiosity in Japan. One factor is the strong influence of secularism and modernization, which have led to a decline in traditional religious practices. Additionally, Japanese society places emphasis on individualism, and many people feel comfortable holding personal beliefs or non-beliefs without adhering to organized religion.

However, it’s essential to recognize that spirituality and cultural practices still play a role in Japanese society, even among those who do not identify with any specific religion. So, it it in the 2nd position among the top 10 atheist countries in the world.

3. Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is often cited as one of the most atheist or non-religious countries in the world. According to various surveys and studies, a significant portion of the Czech population identifies as atheist, agnostic, or non-religious.

Several historical and societal factors have contributed to the prevalence of atheism in the Czech Republic. During the communist era (1948-1989), the Czech Republic (then part of Czechoslovakia) experienced state-imposed atheism and suppression of religious practices. This period led to a decline in religious adherence and contributed to the development of a secular society.

After the fall of communism, religious freedom was restored, but religiosity did not experience a significant resurgence. Many Czechs continue to identify as atheist or non-religious, influenced by the legacy of the communist era, as well as broader trends of secularization and skepticism toward organized religion. So, it it in the 3rd position in the list of top 10 atheist countries in the world.

4. France

France is often considered one of the most secular countries in the world, with a significant portion of the population identifying as atheist, agnostic, or non-religious. While France has a long history of Catholicism, the influence of religion on public life has declined substantially over the past century.

Several factors have contributed to the prevalence of atheism and secularism in France. The French Revolution of 1789 led to the separation of church and state, establishing secularism as a fundamental principle of the French Republic. Since then, secularism (laïcité) has been enshrined in French law and has played a central role in shaping the country’s cultural and political landscape. Additionally, France experienced significant social and cultural changes in the 20th century, including industrialization, urbanization, and increased education levels, which have contributed to a decline in religious observance and affiliation.

5. South Korea

South Korea is a country where religious diversity coexists with a significant portion of the population identifying as atheist, agnostic, or non-religious. While South Korea has a rich religious heritage, including Buddhism, Confucianism, and Christianity, particularly Protestantism, there is also a sizable segment of the population that does not actively practice any religion.

Historically, South Korea has undergone significant social and cultural transformations, including rapid industrialization, urbanization, and modernization, which have contributed to changing attitudes toward religion. Additionally, South Korea experienced periods of conflict and political instability, such as the Korean War, which may have influenced religious beliefs and practices.

Despite the prevalence of Christianity in South Korea, particularly Protestantism and, to a lesser extent, Catholicism, there is also a growing trend of secularism and non-religiosity, especially among younger generations.

6. Germany

Germany is a country where atheism or non-religiosity is relatively prevalent, particularly in comparison to many other European nations. While Christianity, specifically Protestantism and Catholicism, has historically been the dominant religion in Germany, there has been a steady decline in religious affiliation and observance in recent decades.

Several factors have contributed to the rise of atheism and secularism in Germany. The process of secularization, influenced by factors such as industrialization, urbanization, and increased education levels, has led to a decrease in the influence of organized religion in public life. Additionally, Germany experienced periods of political and social upheaval in the 20th century, including World War II and the division of East and West Germany during the Cold War, which may have contributed to shifting attitudes toward religion.

7. Netherlands

The Netherlands is often cited as one of the most secular countries in the world, with a significant portion of the population identifying as atheist, agnostic, or non-religious. While Christianity, specifically Protestantism and Catholicism, has historically been the dominant religion in the Netherlands, there has been a considerable decline in religious affiliation and observance in recent decades.

Several factors have contributed to the rise of atheism and secularism in the Netherlands. The process of secularization, influenced by factors such as industrialization, urbanization, and increased education levels, has led to a decrease in the influence of organized religion in public life. Additionally, the Netherlands has a long tradition of tolerance and liberalism, which has fostered an environment conducive to diverse beliefs and worldviews.

8. Sweden

Sweden is often considered one of the most secular countries in the world. While precise figures may vary depending on the source and methodology of surveys, a significant portion of the Swedish population identifies as non-religious or atheist. According to various surveys and studies, approximately 50-85% of Swedes are estimated to be non-religious or irreligious, with atheism being prevalent among a sizable portion of the population.

Sweden has a long history of secularism and separation of church and state. The Church of Sweden, which was the state church until 2000, has seen declining membership and influence over the years, reflecting broader trends of secularization in Swedish society. Today, many Swedes view religion as a private matter, and secular values such as individual freedom, equality, and social welfare are highly prioritized in the country’s social and political landscape.

9. United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is a diverse country with varying degrees of religious belief and non-belief across its regions and demographic groups. While it has historically been a predominantly Christian nation, particularly with the Church of England as the established church, there has been a noticeable decline in religious affiliation and church attendance in recent decades. As a result, atheism and non-religiosity have become increasingly common.

According to various surveys and studies, including those conducted by organizations like NatCen Social Research and the British Social Attitudes Survey, the percentage of people in the UK who identify as non-religious or atheist has been steadily increasing. Estimates suggest that roughly 50-60% of the UK population identifies as non-religious or has no religious affiliation.

The reasons for this trend are multifaceted and include factors such as cultural shifts, secularization, increased religious diversity, and skepticism towards organized religion. Additionally, younger generations in the UK tend to be less religiously affiliated than older ones, contributing to the overall decline in religious adherence.

However, it’s essential to recognize that religious belief and practice still exist in the UK, and there are significant variations in religiosity across different regions, ethnic groups, and age cohorts. While atheism and non-religiosity may be more prevalent in certain areas or demographic segments, the UK remains a country with a diverse religious landscape.

10. Australia

Australia is a predominantly secular country with a significant portion of the population identifying as non-religious or atheist. While Christianity has historically been the dominant religion in Australia, the country has seen a noticeable decline in religious affiliation and church attendance in recent years.

According to various surveys and studies, including the Australian Census and research conducted by organizations like the Australian Bureau of Statistics and the Australian National University, the percentage of Australians identifying as non-religious or having no religious affiliation has been steadily increasing. Estimates suggest that approximately 30-40% of Australians identify as non-religious, atheist, or agnostic.

Several factors contribute to the growing secularization of Australian society, including cultural shifts, increased religious diversity, skepticism towards organized religion, and the influence of secular values such as individualism and pluralism. Additionally, younger generations in Australia tend to be less religiously affiliated than older ones, further contributing to the overall decline in religious adherence.

Despite the trend towards secularization, it’s important to note that religious belief and practice still exist in Australia, and there are variations in religiosity across different regions, ethnic groups, and demographic segments. However, atheism and non-religiosity have become increasingly prevalent in Australian society, shaping its social, cultural, and political landscape.

Ranking of Atheist Countries

The degree of atheism or non-religiosity in these countries can vary and some may have significant populations identifying with various religious beliefs despite a relatively higher proportion of atheists or non-religious individuals. Additionally, religious beliefs and practices can evolve over time due to various social, cultural, and political factors.

Positiion	Atheist Countries
1	China
2	Japan
3	Czech Republic
4	France
5	South Korea
6	Germany
7	Netherlands
8	Sweden
9	United Kingdom
10	Australia
11	Canada
12	Denmark
13	Norway
14	Finland
15	Estonia
16	Russia
17	Belgium
18	New Zealand
19	Iceland
20	Austria