More than half of Christians reported prejudice.
A recent survey conducted by Logos Scotland reveals that over two-thirds of Christians in Scotland have encountered prejudice related to their faith. The survey, which included 1,077 participants from both Christian and non-Christian backgrounds, was carried out between January and April. According to the survey, nearly 70% of respondents reported experiencing some form of prejudice, although a small percentage (about 5%) disagreed with this finding. Despite these challenges, most Christians felt comfortable being open about their faith in both private and public settings.
Shona Haslam, Chief Executive of Logos Scotland, expressed that while the survey results were not surprising, the data was valuable. She highlighted that the level of confidence Christians showed in discussing their faith, even in public settings, was noteworthy. Haslam believes the Scottish government should address these concerns, suggesting that the government needs to better understand and engage with Christian communities.
The survey results come amid controversy involving Kate Forbes, the Scottish National Party member and newly appointed Deputy First Minister of Scotland. Forbes, a member of the Free Church of Scotland, has faced criticism from the Scottish Green Party for her Evangelical Christian beliefs and her opposition to same-sex marriage. Despite this, First Minister John Swinney defended Forbes, emphasizing his commitment to fostering an inclusive Scotland where everyone feels respected.
The broader context of religious affiliation in Scotland shows a diverse landscape. According to a recent report by the National Records of Scotland, a majority of Scots do not identify with any particular religion. About 20% of the population is affiliated with the Church of Scotland, while around 18% belong to other Christian denominations. This context highlights the complex dynamics between religious identity and societal attitudes in Scotland.