Global Scans · Religion · Weekly Summary

WHAT'S NEXT?: Huge growth is expected over the next several decades as the world's Muslim population grows faster than every other major religious demographic, and as urbanization and rising incomes in developing countries with large Muslim populations mean more will be buying, rather than producing their own food.

• [New] The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) will disburse more than $8 million from its wakaf-generated income in 2026. ST
• [New] The US and Israeli war with Iran has increased threat actors' intent to target Jewish, Israeli and US interests, including individuals and religious or cultural sites. Seerist
• [New] California private and religious K-12 schools will have to stand up new policies to promote safe learning environments and comply with abuse prevention procedures that already apply to public schools. Fisher Phillips
• [New] The dissolution of the Unification Church in Japan could set a dangerous precedent for religious freedom in democratic countries. Religion Media Centre
• [New] Other democracies could follow Japan's example in seeking to dissolve unpopular religious groups. Religion Media Centre
• [New] The Trump administration has proposed a new rule that could devastate Christian higher education by tying student loans to the earning potential of degree programs. Baptist News Global
• The statement called for Australia to encourage India to ensure journalists and human rights advocates could work free from intimidation and address discrimination of religious and ethnic minorities. The Guardian
• Appelbaum warns that failure to agree on a shared understanding could have severe consequences for the US: 'A nation defined by blood and soil - built around a shared religion or ethnicity - can survive divergent narratives. Spiked
• The US Department of Defense has announced a reduction in the number of religious affiliations recognised by chaplains as they plan their service. Religion Media Centre
• The written government response sets a precedent that could help other detained Christians gain access to Scripture too - a small but significant legal breakthrough for Chinese Christians. Bible Gateway News & Knowledge
• The Iranians and the Turks plan to replace Israel with the multi-ethnic, multi-religious state of Judea. Prepare for Change
• The executive committee recognizes the emergence and development of a Palestinian Christian theology shaped by their distinct lived experience and grounded in Scripture, which affirms steadfastness, nonviolence, hope, justice, and the equal God-given dignity of all people. World Council of Churches
• Pakistan recognized Christian and even Hindu celebrations and national holidays, yet today it has driven its Hindus and Sikhs out; Christians and Ahmadis fear lynchings justified by false blasphemy charges. Middle East Forum

Last updated: 27 July 2026