The National Bureau of Statistics has released preliminary findings from the 2024 Population and Housing Census, shedding light on the religious composition of Moldova. The results reaffirm the country’s strong Orthodox Christian identity while highlighting subtle demographic shifts within religious affiliations.
Orthodox Christianity Remains Dominant:
According to the census, 95.0% of Moldova’s population identifies as Orthodox Christian, maintaining the historical predominance of Eastern Orthodoxy in the country. This figure underscores the deep-rooted religious traditions of the Moldovan people, with the Orthodox Church continuing to play a central role in cultural and spiritual life.
Minor Religious Communities:
While Orthodox Christianity remains the dominant faith, a small percentage of the population adheres to other religious beliefs:
- Baptists: 1.1%
- Jehovah’s Witnesses: 0.7%
- Pentecostals: 0.5%
- Adventists: 0.3%
- Atheists: 0.6%
- No religious affiliation: 0.8%
These figures reflect Moldova’s religious diversity, albeit in smaller numbers compared to the overwhelming Orthodox majority.
Regional Variations in Religious Identity:
Religious affiliation varies across Moldova’s regions. While Orthodox Christianity remains the majority faith in all areas, some regions report slightly higher proportions of religious minorities. Urban centers, particularly Chisinau, exhibit greater diversity, with more residents identifying as members of Protestant denominations or as non-religious compared to rural areas.
Impact of Emigration on Religious Demographics:
The ongoing emigration trend has influenced the religious composition of the country. Many Moldovans who relocate abroad belong to the Orthodox Christian faith, contributing to shifts in the religious demographic balance over time. Additionally, younger generations increasingly identify as having no religious affiliation, a trend observed in many post-Soviet states.
Religious Freedom and Social Cohesion:
Moldova continues to uphold religious freedom, allowing various faith communities to practice openly. While the Orthodox Church maintains a privileged position in national culture and heritage, smaller religious groups actively contribute to the country’s social and humanitarian efforts.
Source: statistica.gov.md
