As the world becomes more interconnected and scientifically informed, religion no longer holds the same position of dominance in many societies.
Across the globe, a rising number of people are identifying as atheists, agnostics, or simply non-religious.
Whether influenced by education, technology, individual freedom, or cultural shifts, this trend shows that secularism is on the rise.
In this guide, we’ll explore the 15 most atheistic or non-religious countries in the world, based on surveys and studies measuring how people view religion, belief in God, and religious affiliation.
1. China
China leads the world in terms of the percentage of non-religious citizens. Influenced by decades of state-promoted atheism under communist rule, religion plays a limited role in public life.
More than 90% of Chinese people do not identify with any organized religion, and a large portion consider themselves atheist. Spiritual practices exist, but often outside the realm of traditional theism.
2. Czech Republic
With a long history of secularism, the Czech Republic has one of the lowest rates of religious affiliation in Europe.
More than 75% of its population identify as non-religious or atheist. This trend began under communist rule and has continued with strong support for science, logic, and individual rights.
3. Sweden
Sweden is a prime example of a socially progressive and highly secular society. Despite the historical influence of the Lutheran Church, over 70% of Swedes say they are not religious.
Many are baptized or married in churches for tradition’s sake, but belief in God or regular worship is uncommon.
4. Estonia
Estonia is often cited as the least religious country in Europe. More than 70% of Estonians say they have no religion, and belief in God is among the lowest in the world.
The nation has embraced modern science and education while maintaining a rich cultural identity independent of religion.
5. Japan
In Japan, religion is more cultural than spiritual. Shinto and Buddhism are practiced for tradition and rituals rather than belief.
About 65-70% of Japanese people identify as non-religious or atheist. Science, technology, and philosophy play a much greater role in shaping worldviews.
6. Norway
Though it has an official state church, Norway is a deeply secular society in practice.
Over 60% of Norwegians say religion is not important in their lives, and many rarely attend church services. Education, equality, and critical thinking are major influences.
7. Denmark
Denmark mirrors its Nordic neighbors with high levels of atheism and secular values. Even though the majority are technically members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, nearly 60% of Danes identify as non-religious in daily life.
8. France
France has a strong tradition of laïcité the separation of religion and state. While historically Catholic, modern France is highly secular, with around 60% of the population identifying as non-religious.
The country values rational thought, freedom of belief, and personal privacy over institutional religion.
9. United Kingdom
The UK has seen a major decline in religious belief over the past few decades. Recent data shows that over 50% of people now identify as non-religious, especially among younger generations.
Churches continue to operate, but secularism is on the rise in politics, education, and culture.
10. Germany
Germany is split between religious tradition and modern secularism. While parts of the country remain religious, about 45% of the population overall now identifies as atheist or agnostic.
Eastern Germany, in particular, has one of the highest concentrations of atheists in the Western world.
11. South Korea
In South Korea, rapid modernization and urbanization have led to a significant shift in religious identification. Nearly 50% of South Koreans now consider themselves non-religious.
The country remains diverse in belief, but secular thinking is increasingly dominant, especially among younger citizens.
12. Netherlands
Known for its progressive values and tolerance, the Netherlands has a strong secular population.
Around 45–50% of Dutch citizens do not identify with any religion. Religion is often considered a personal matter, and churches are closing or being repurposed across the country.
13. Australia
Australia’s religious landscape has changed rapidly. More than 40% of Australians report no religion, up from just 19% in 2006.
The younger population, in particular, is moving away from religious institutions in favor of personal freedom and rational thought.
14. Finland
Although Finland has an official Lutheran church, its society is largely secular. Around 40% of Finns say they are not religious, and church attendance is very low. Education and science are major influences on daily life and public policy.
15. New Zealand
New Zealand has become one of the most secular nations in the Southern Hemisphere.
Over 40% of its population identifies as non-religious. Respect for diversity, freedom of belief, and a focus on well-being have driven this cultural shift.
Alicia Richards