Ghana is a predominantly Christian country: 60% of Ghanaians claim to be Christians, but there is also a significant Muslim minority (16%). Religious or faith-based groupings are undoubtedly one of the most vigorous elements in civil society, with probably the largest, most socially rooted and widely distributed membership base. They have a high level of associational activity and participation (from choirs to charitable associations and cell-based neighbourhood groups), and a degree of autonomy from the state which gives the strongest ones considerable ability to resist repression. This is particularly true of those with strong external support networks such as the Roman Catholic Church, mainstream Protestant and Pentecostal churches and Islamic groups.