Decline of Catholicism and Rise of Religious Unaffiliation in Latin America

A recent report by the Pew Research Center reveals a significant decline in Catholicism across Latin America, with an increasing number of adults identifying as religiously unaffiliated. The survey, conducted from January 22 to April 27, 2024, included 6,234 adults from six populous countries: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and Peru, which together represent approximately 75% of the region's population. The findings indicate that the Catholic share of the population has decreased by at least nine percentage points in each country since 2013-14, while the percentage of those identifying as atheist, agnostic, or "nothing in particular" has risen by seven points or more.

Catholicism sees steep decline in Latin America, with more people identifying as religiously unaffiliatedCatholicism shrinks in Latin America while more are religiously unaffiliated, Pew surveys find

Historically, Latin America has been a stronghold for Catholicism, closely tied to influential figures such as Pope Leo XIV and Pope Francis. However, the church's influence has waned due to various factors, including clergy sex abuse scandals and opposition to its stances on abortion and LGBTQ+ rights. As a result, many individuals in countries like Argentina are exploring spiritual alternatives beyond traditional religious practices, such as yoga, tarot, and astrology.

Catholicism shrinks in Latin America while more are religiously unaffiliated, Pew surveys find

The survey results show that Catholics now make up between 46% and 67% of the adult population in the surveyed countries, while the unaffiliated population ranges from 12% to 33%. Notably, in Argentina, Chile, Colombia, and Mexico, there are now more religiously unaffiliated adults than Protestants. In Mexico, for instance, about 20% of adults identify as atheist, agnostic, or "nothing in particular," compared to roughly 10% who identify as Protestant.

Catholicism shrinks in Latin America while more are religiously unaffiliated, Pew surveys findCatholicism sees steep decline in Latin America, with more people identifying as religiously unaffiliated

Despite the decline in Catholic affiliation, Protestantism has remained relatively stable across the region. In Brazil, which has the highest percentage of Protestants among the surveyed nations, 29% of adults identify as Protestant, a slight increase from 26% in 2013-14. The most significant shift is observed among those with no religious affiliation, indicating a broader transformation in the region's religious identity.

Catholicism sees steep decline in Latin America, with more people identifying as religiously unaffiliated

Despite these shifts, the Pew analysis highlights that Latin Americans remain deeply religious. Approximately 90% of adults in each country affirm belief in God, and many consider religion to be very important in their lives. Daily prayer is common, particularly in Brazil, Colombia, and Peru, where majorities report praying at least once a day. Interestingly, even among the religiously unaffiliated, most still express belief in a higher power.

Catholicism sees steep decline in Latin America, with more people identifying as religiously unaffiliatedCatholicism shrinks in Latin America while more are religiously unaffiliated, Pew surveys find

The findings from the Pew Research Center underscore a profound transformation in the religious landscape of Latin America, characterized by a decline in Catholic affiliation and a rise in religious unaffiliation. While these changes reflect a significant shift in religious identity, the enduring belief in God and the importance of spirituality remain prevalent among the population.

Catholicism sees steep decline in Latin America, with more people identifying as religiously unaffiliated