In Kazakhstan, as in other progressive countries, discrimination of any religion is not allowed. Various religious movements coexist peacefully on the territory of the country. After the collapse of the Soviet Union and the recognition of the independence of the republic, there has been an increase in the religious activity of the population and an increase in the number of religious communities.
The most widespread religion in the country is Sunni Islam. Islam is professed by Kazakhs, who make up more than 60% of the population, as well as Uzbeks, Uighurs, and Tatars. In Kazakhstan, 2550 mosques have been opened, which are part of the Spiritual Union of Muslims of Kazakhstan. Thus, Muslim holidays like Eid al-Adha are officially recognized as national holidays in the country.
The second most popular religion is Orthodox Christianity, which represents a quarter of the population. These include ethnic Russians, Ukrainians, and Belarusians. Over the past decades, many churches have been restored and built throughout the country. Currently, there are 294 Orthodox churches, more than 495 Protestant and 109 Catholic churches. Orthodox Christmas is also considered as a national holiday in Kazakhstan.
Besides, religious groups of Catholics, Lutherans, Baptists, and Jehovah’s Witnesses are registered on the territory of the state. Also, a small part of the population professes Judaism, Bahá’í, Hinduism, Buddhism, and other religious movements.
