🗓️ June 2025 | Moscow News Desk

In a country known for its rich history and deep spirituality, the religious landscape of Russia in 2025 might surprise you. While many still identify with the Russian Orthodox Church, a growing number of people—especially the youth—are turning their backs on traditional religion. In this deep dive, we break down who believes in what, where, and why. The data is fresh, real, and reveals a modern Russia that's changing fast.

Let’s explore the current status of religion in Russia with facts, flair, and an easy-to-understand style.

🔥 Headline: “Faith Fades or Finds New Form? Russia’s Religious Shift in 2025”

🇷🇺 A Country Once Dominated by Faith

For centuries, Orthodox Christianity was at the heart of Russian identity. Glorious churches, gold domes, and saints were everywhere. But after the Soviet Union’s state atheism era (1917–1991), when religion was crushed and believers were often punished, things changed.

Today, the numbers tell a new story.

📊 Russia’s 2025 Religion Breakdown (Freshest Data)

Source: VTsIOM (2023), FOM (2024), Pew Research Center

🎯 What the Numbers Actually Mean

➤ 1. Orthodox But Not Devoted

More than half of Russians say they’re Orthodox Christians, but only 5–10% actually practice the religion regularly. Church attendance is low, and many identify with Orthodoxy simply out of tradition.

❝For most, it’s a cultural identity, not a daily spiritual practice,❞ says a researcher at VTsIOM.

➤ 2. Youth Are Breaking the Chain

In the 18–24 age group, a massive 42% are non-religious. Among them, only about 29% identify as Orthodox. That’s a huge shift from the older generation, where religion still holds strong emotional and political value.

➤ 3. Islam Holds Steady

Russia is home to one of the largest Muslim populations in Europe, with 5–9% identifying as Muslim. In places like Tatarstan and Dagestan, Islam is vibrant and central to daily life. Mosques are active, and festivals like Eid are widely celebrated.

➤ 4. Buddhism and Judaism Survive Quietly

Though small in number, Buddhists in Kalmykia, Tuva, and Buryatia maintain their traditions with strong community support. Judaism, though historically significant in Russia, remains under 1% today.

💡 Fun Fact:

Kalmykia is the only region in Europe where Buddhism is the dominant religion. Yes, in the middle of Russia!

📉 Why the Decline in Belief?

• Urbanization: Big cities mean busier lives, less tradition.

• Internet & Global Culture: Youth today consume YouTube and Reddit more than scripture.

• Soviet Legacy: Decades of anti-religious sentiment still echo.

• Freedom of Thought: Many now choose spirituality over organized religion.

⚖️ Government & Religion: A Complicated Love Story

While the Russian constitution guarantees religious freedom, the government has a cozy relationship with the Russian Orthodox Church. Patriarch Kirill, head of the Church, often stands next to President Putin during national events.

However, new religious groups, especially foreign ones, face scrutiny. Evangelical Christians and Jehovah’s Witnesses have reported pressure and even bans.

🚀 So What’s Next?

Russia is clearly becoming less religious in practice, even though traditional affiliations remain strong on paper. Younger Russians are choosing spiritual freedom, scientific thinking, or nothing at all. But Islam is growing in numbers and influence in its regional strongholds.

Experts believe that by 2030, Russia may become even more secular unless there's a cultural revival.

🧠 Summary in Simple Words:

• Most Russians say they’re Orthodox, but don’t practice religion regularly.

• Many young people don’t follow any religion.

• Muslims are strong in a few regions and growing slowly.

• Buddhism and Judaism are small but proud.

• Religion is becoming more personal, less political, and less public.

🔍 Final Thought:

In Russia, religion is no longer in the driver’s seat. It’s riding in the back—present, sometimes important, but no longer steering the journey. The youth are navigating, and they prefer freedom, facts, and flexibility.