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Scotland’s Census 2022 Reveals Majority with No Religion

For the first time in Scotland’s history, a majority of people have declared themselves as having “no religion.” According to the latest census data released by the National Records of Scotland (NRS), 51.1% of respondents indicated no religious affiliation, a significant increase from 36.7% in 2011.

The NRS report highlights that “no religion” was the predominant response across almost every council area in Scotland, except for Na h-Eileanan Siar (Western Isles) and Inverclyde. In the Western Isles, the “Church of Scotland” remained the most common response, but the percentage of those with no religion rose from 11.4% in 2001 to 29.9% in 2022. Similarly, in Inverclyde, “Roman Catholic” was the most common response.

Scotland’s Census 2022 Reveals Majority with No Religion

While the “Church of Scotland” still holds the largest share among religious groups, its numbers have steadily declined—from 42.4% in 2001 to 20.4% in the latest census. Other significant religious groups include “Roman Catholic” (13.3%), “Other Christian” (5.1%), and “Muslim” (2.2%).

Interestingly, census data from England and Wales shows a similar trend, while Northern Ireland witnessed an increase in the “no religion” category from 13.9% in 2001 to 17.4% in 2021.

Beyond religion, the census also revealed shifts in national identity and language skills. The percentage of people identifying solely as Scottish increased from 62.4% to 65.5%, while those identifying solely as British rose from 8.4% to 13.9%. Additionally, 2.5% of people aged three and over reported having some skills in Gaelic—an increase of 43,100 people since 2011.

In summary, Scotland’s changing demographics reflect a growing secular trend, with more people embracing a non-religious identity. The census provides valuable insights into the evolving cultural landscape of this vibrant nation.

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