Muslim population expected to rise, will make them largest religious community in the world by...

The global Muslim population is projected to increase significantly in the coming decades, with an addition of over 1.16 billion people. According to a report by the Pew Research Center, this surge will make Islam the largest religion worldwide by 2050. The study analyzed the growth rates of the world's major religions, including Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, Judaism, and Buddhism.

Currently, Islam is the second-largest religion, with 1.6 billion followers in 2010. Over the next 25 years, the Muslim population is expected to grow to more than two billion, surpassing Christianity, which is currently the largest religious group. By comparison, with 2.17 billion adherents as of 2010, Christianity will see a smaller increase of 800 million people, reaching 2.91 billion by 2050. This shift will place Muslims at the top as the largest global religious community.

Reasons for Rapid Muslim Population Growth
The report highlights several factors contributing to the rapid increase in the Muslim population. One key reason is the relatively young demographic of Muslims, with 34% of the population under the age of 15 and 60% aged between 15 and 59 as of 2010. Additionally, Muslim women have the highest fertility rates among religious groups, averaging 3.1 children per woman, compared to 2.7 for Christian women.

Regions like Sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Asia are expected to witness the most significant population growth. Improved healthcare and lower mortality rates in these areas are also accelerating population growth.

India to Host the Largest Muslim Population
The study also predicts that India will surpass Indonesia to become the country with the largest Muslim population by 2050. This aligns with the global trend of Islam being the fastest-growing religion.

In summary, Islam’s growth is driven by high fertility rates, a young population, and rapid growth in developing regions. By 2050, this trajectory is expected to reshape the religious demographic globally.