Main Religions of Ethiopia

Ethiopia is a deeply religious, pluralistic society. The 2007 census (latest comprehensive) and subsequent estimates show:

Christianity ~65–70%

• Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church: ~40–50% (dominant historic church, autocephalous since 1959, unique canon, Ge'ez liturgy).
• Protestant (P'ent'ay): ~15–20% (Lutheran, Baptist, Mennonite, Pentecostal, Kale Heywet, Meserete Kristos).
• Roman Catholic: ~1–2% (two rites: Latin & Ge'ez).

Islam ~30–35%

• Predominantly Sunni (Shafi'i madhhab).
• Minority Shia and Sufi orders (Qadiriyya, Tijaniyya).
• Concentrated in east (Hararghe, Afar, Somali), south, and urban centers.

Other Faiths

• Beta Israel (Ethiopian Jews): Most emigrated to Israel (1980s–90s); small community remains.
• Traditional African religions: Minority, often syncretic.
• Bahá'í, Hindu, Sikh: Small expatriate communities.

Constitutional Framework

The 1995 Constitution guarantees freedom of religion, separation of state and religion, and prohibits religious parties. Interfaith coexistence is a national hallmark, though tensions occasionally flare.