In this piece, we will take a look at the five most atheist countries in the world. If you want to take a deeper look at the link between religion and economic output, then check out 25 Most Atheist Countries in the World.
5. Hong Kong SAR
Percentage of Population With No Religious Affiliation: 51.8%
While Hong Kong is not a country, it still makes it to our list since Pew Research compiles data separately for it and because the percentage of its population being irreligious makes for the majority. Hong Kong is a Chinese autonomous region and it is one of the most prosperous regions in the world due to its geographic location. Hong Kong provides a conduit to Chinese financial markets and securities, and it also has some of the largest sea and airports in the world.
4. Japan
Percentage of Population With No Religious Affiliation: 60%
Japan is a global economic power due to its GDP of $4.3 trillion which is the fourth largest in the world after the U.S., China, and Germany. It is also one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world and is capable of launching its own rockets and making its own chips. 46% of Japanese people had no religion according to IPSOS data, and at the same time, 39% were classified under ‘other religion’ which most likely includes Shintoism and Buddhism – two of Japan’s oldest religions.
3. Republic of Estonia
Percentage of Population With No Religious Affiliation: 60.2%
Estonia is a Northern European country. It has a $41 billion economy and a high GDP per capita of $31,207. However, Estonia has low levels of income equality compared to some of the other developed European nations. Data from Estonia’s 2021 census shows that the majority of its population identified as being irreligious, with the official percentage sitting at 58.4%. The Estonian economy is dominated by capital intensive sectors such as construction and industrial production.
2. Democratic People’s Republic of Korea
Percentage of Population With No Religious Affiliation: 71.3%
North Korea is an East Asian country that borders South Korea, China, and Russia. It is one of the most underdeveloped countries in the world due to the isolationist regime of its ruling family that maintains an ironclad grip over the country’s affairs. Like other sectors, religion in North Korea is also governed by strict laws. It is one of the few officially atheist countries in the world and also guarantees freedom of religion. However, North Korea’s religious freedom laws strictly forbids any religious activities that can ‘harm’ the state – and the Kim family by extension.
1. Czech Republic
Percentage of Population With No Religious Affiliation: 78.4%
The Czech Republic is a Central European landlocked country. Its 2021 census shows that 56.9% of the population identified as having no religion. The country has high levels of human development and income equality, as well as a strong $330 billion economy and a $31,368 GDP per capita.
Disclosure: None. You can also take a look at 10 Healthiest Artificial and Natural Sweeteners in the World and 12 Best Upwork Alternatives for Freelancers and Employers.
