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[Moslems and Hindus in the Netherlands: revised time series]
Summary
Estimating religious demographics in the Netherlands, particularly Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist populations, has evolved since 1971. Current methods utilize international migration data and municipal registers for accurate population counts.
Area of Science:
- Demography
- Sociology
- Religious Studies
Background:
- Accurate demographic data on religious groups is essential for policy and social understanding.
- The Netherlands has a diverse population with significant Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist communities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present estimates of Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist populations in the Netherlands.
- To describe the methodologies employed in generating these demographic estimates.
Main Methods:
- Annual computation using international migration statistics since 1971.
- Population growth estimation based on crude birth and death rates applied to specific ethnic groups (e.g., Turks, Moroccans for Muslims; Surinamese for Hindus/Buddhists).
- Recent adoption of enumerations from municipal population registers for more precise estimates.
Main Results:
- Established methods for estimating religious minority populations in the Netherlands.
- Demonstrated evolution of estimation techniques over time, from migration data to municipal registers.
Conclusions:
- The study provides a methodological framework for tracking religious demographic changes.
- Continuous refinement of data sources, such as municipal registers, enhances the accuracy of population estimates for religious groups.