#4 Malawi
In Malawi, a careful balance of religious integration and tolerance has helped allow multiple faiths to flourish in this small, landlocked African nation. Rooted in a strong missionary culture, Christianity accounts for approximately 80 percent of the country's religious identity, with Catholicism being the largest denomination. Relations between the two largest religions in Malawi - Christianity and Islam - have remained relatively strong in recent years, and democratic reforms implemented in the 1990s have allowed other religious minorities - such as Hindus, Baha'i and Jehovah's Witnesses - to thrive. While religious tolerance is prevalent in practice, Malawi is not a secular state. Religious education is emphasized at an early age in public schools, with families offered a choice between Christian studies or multi-faith religious courses. Though denominational diversity is tolerated, adherence to some kind of faith is encouraged in Malawi. Global Top 5s is a monthly feature by RealClearWorld.com powered by Gallup's worldwide research. Learn more at Gallup.com.
