The Vatican reports that Africa has overtaken Europe in the number of Catholics, with the highest population increase worldwide. The Church’s statistics indicate Africa now has more Catholics than Europe, reflecting rapid growth in the region.
In the latest figures released by the Holy See, the Vatican says the number of Catholics worldwide reached 1.422 billion at the end of June 2024, representing 17.8% of the global population and a small year-on-year rise. Outlets also note that the data comes from the Catholic Church’s statistical reporting compiled by its news agency Fides, as cited in Vatican material. The reporting focuses on regional shifts—particularly Africa’s growth compared with Europe’s—rather than changes in any specific country or policy.
