What is the religion practised in Uzbekistan?
Uzbekistan is predominantly Muslim, with 90% of the population practicing Hanafi Sunni Islam. 9% of residents attend Orthodox churches, with the remainder divided between Protestantism, Buddhism, and Judaism.
Sunni Islam, the majority religion
Islam dominates the Uzbek religious landscape with 90% of the population practicing it, mainly according to the Hanafi Sunni school. This Muslim legal school, one of the four orthodox schools of Sunni Islam, influences daily religious practice and local traditions.
Religious minorities
- Orthodox Christianity: approximately 9% of the population, mainly from the Russian and Slavic community.
- Protestantism: minority presence but established.
- Buddhism and Judaism: very restricted communities but historically present.
Contemporary evolution
Uzbek society is experiencing notable religious change with an annual increase in the number of individuals who are atheist or non-practicing, reflecting the transformations of the post-Soviet country.