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Egypt's Christian population pegged at 5%
February 18, 2011
Although media reports routinely estimate that Christians account for 10% of Egypt's population, the Pew Forum reports that the most recent survey places the figure at only 5%.
The Pew figure suggests that the Christian population of Egypt has been either overestimated or undercounted. The available surveys are not regarded as entirely reliable, and the latest official census figures do not provide statistics on religious affiliation. However, earlier census statistics had showed a steady decline in Christian population-- probably reflecting the exodus of young Christians seeking better prospects in other countries, as well as the higher fertility rate among Muslim women.
The vast majority of Egyptian Christians are members of the Coptic Orthodox Church.
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