An estimated 90 percent of Malians are Muslim, mostly Sunni; Approximately 5 percent are Christian (about two-thirds Roman Catholic and one-third Protestant denominations); The remaining 5 percent of Malians adhere to indigenous or traditional animist beliefs.

Atheism and agnosticism are believed to be rare among Malians, most of whom practice their religion on a daily basis.

According to the U.S. Department of State’s annual report on religious freedom, Islam as traditionally practiced in Mali can be characterized as moderate, tolerant, and adapted to local conditions. Women participate in economic, social, and political activity and generally do not wear veils.

The constitution establishes a secular state and provides for freedom of religion, and the government largely respects this right. Relations between Muslims and practitioners of minority religious faiths are generally amicable, and foreign missionary groups (both Muslim and non-Muslim) are tolerated.