Muslim World

 

10 Afghanistan
Population 26 million. More than 90 per cent Muslim. About 85 per cent Sunni; 15 per cent Shi'i, the latter largely in areas that resisted control of the Taliban regime of hardline religious students and their followers, influenced by Wahhabi ideology espoused by Osama bin Laden and his terrorist network. When the Taliban refused to hand bin Laden over to America after the September 11 attack on Manhattan, America and its coalition went to war against Afghanistan.

11 Pakistan
Population 156 million. About 95 per cent Muslim, of whom 80 per cent Sunni and 20 per cent Shi'i. Recognised Taliban regime of Afghanistan, and supported it through its secret service. Military government since coup led by General Pervaiz Musharraf in 1999. In long-running dispute with India over control of mainly Muslim Kashmir. Possesses nuclear weapons.

12 India
Population 1,006 million. Predominantly Hindu (82 per cent); about 11 per cent Muslim, of whom almost all Sunni. Democratically elected government. In dispute with Pakistan over mainly Muslim Kashmir. Possesses nuclear weapons.

13 Bangladesh
Population 128 million. About 88 per cent Sunni Muslim. Hindu minority of about 1 per cent. Became independent from Pakistan in 1972 after a civil war.

14 Indonesia
Population 212 million; about 87 per cent Muslim, making it the country with the most Muslims. Almost all are Sunni. Islam became established in the 13th century, and by the 18th century most people in Java and Sumatra were Muslims. The culture of the country has also been much influenced by Hinduism and animist ideas.

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