Afghanistan

Languages:

Afghanistan is a linguistically diverse nation with over 40 languages spoken across its territory. Pashto and Dari, both Indo-European languages, hold official status and are spoken by 45% and 50% of the population, respectively. Dari, a Persian dialect, serves as the primary language of government and education, while Pashto is primarily spoken among the Pashtun ethnic group. Minority languages such as Uzbek, Turkmen, and Balochi are spoken by various ethnic communities, further enriching the country's linguistic landscape.

Religion:

Religiously, Afghanistan is an Islamic Republic with a predominantly Muslim population. Approximately 99% of Afghans adhere to Islam, with Sunni Muslims comprising around 85% and Shia Muslims making up about 15%. The remaining 1% of the population practices other faiths, including Christianity, Hinduism, and Baha'i. Religious practices and beliefs have significantly influenced the country's culture, politics, and legal system, with Sharia law often serving as a basis for jurisprudence.

Ethnic Groups:

Pashtun, Tajik, Hazara, Uzbek, other (includes smaller numbers of Baloch, Turkmen, Nuristani, Pamiri, Arab, Gujar, Brahui, Qizilbash, Aimaq, Pashai, and Kyrghyz) (2015) note: current statistical data on the sensitive subject of ethnicity in Afghanistan are not available, and ethnicity data from small samples of respondents to opinion polls are not a reliable alternative; Afghanistans 2004 constitution recognizes 14 ethnic groups: Pashtun, Tajik, Hazara, Uzbek, Baloch, Turkmen, Nuristani, Pamiri, Arab, Gujar, Brahui, Qizilbash, Aimaq, and Pashai