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Bahrain: Religions & Peoples
INTRODUCTION
1. Political situation
2. Economy
3. Health & Education
4. Religions & Peoples
5. History
| RELIGIONS |
Islam
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600,000 |
84% |
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Shi'i
|
430,000 |
60% |
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Sunni
|
170,000 |
24% |
Christianity
|
60,000 |
8.4% |
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Roman Catholic
|
40,000 |
5.6% |
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Protestant
|
20,000 |
2.8% |
Hinduism
|
50,000 |
7% |
Baha'i
|
1,000 |
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| ETHNIC GROUPS |
Bahraini Arabs
|
420,000 |
63% |
Other Arabs
|
70,000 |
10% |
Iranians
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50,000 |
7% |
Asians
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130,000 |
19% |
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Islam is the state religion, and it represents 82% of the population.
Even if the leadership of Bahrain is comprised of Sunnis, the majority (60%) of the population is comprised of Shi'is. Sunnis dominate Bahrain politically and economically.
The Sunnis are living in the cities, where they often make up the majority. Shi'is almost totally dominate the rural areas. The Shi'is form small communities, called ma'atam, where most important events of life are centered, and to which the Shi'is owe their allegiance.
About 1/3 of the population is international, in which Indians, Iranians, Pakistanis, as well as Europeans and Americans, all make up considerable groups.
© Copyright 1996-2008 LookLex Ltd. All rights reserved
By: Tore Kjeilen
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