Unveiling the Jewish Population- How Many People in the World Identify as Jewish-
How much of the world population is Jewish? This is a question that has intrigued many people, especially those interested in demographics and religious statistics. The Jewish population, while small in absolute numbers, has a significant impact on global culture, politics, and economy. In this article, we will explore the current estimate of Jewish population and discuss its distribution across the world.
The Jewish population is estimated to be around 14.7 million people worldwide, as of 2021. This figure represents approximately 0.2% of the global population. Despite being a small percentage, the Jewish community has made remarkable contributions to various fields, including science, technology, arts, and politics.
One of the most prominent Jewish populations is found in Israel, where the Jewish population is estimated to be around 6.9 million, accounting for approximately 74% of the country’s total population. This makes Israel the only country in the world where Jews are the majority.
The United States is home to the largest Jewish population outside of Israel, with an estimated 5.7 million Jews, according to the Jewish Federations of North America. This figure represents about 1.9% of the U.S. population.
Other countries with significant Jewish populations include France, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Argentina. These countries have varying percentages of Jewish residents, ranging from 0.5% to 1.5%.
The Jewish diaspora, which refers to the spread of Jewish people across the world, has been a significant factor in the distribution of the Jewish population. Over the centuries, Jews have been forced to migrate due to persecution and discrimination, leading to their establishment in various countries. This diaspora has resulted in Jewish communities in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
In Europe, the Jewish population is estimated to be around 1.2 million, with the majority living in Russia, Ukraine, and France. However, the Jewish population in Europe has been declining due to assimilation, intermarriage, and the Holocaust.
In Asia, the Jewish population is estimated to be around 500,000, with the majority living in India, China, and Japan. The Jewish presence in these countries dates back to ancient times, with communities in India tracing their roots to the 8th century BCE.
The African Jewish population is estimated to be around 500,000, with the majority living in North Africa and South Africa. The Jewish presence in Africa has been influenced by the diaspora and trade routes over the centuries.
In conclusion, while the Jewish population represents only a small percentage of the world’s total population, it has made a significant impact on global society. The distribution of Jewish communities across the world is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the Jewish people. As the Jewish population continues to evolve, so too will its influence on the world stage.
