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Persecution of Christians in North Korea

 North Korea

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North Korea Facts

Score:	94 / 100
Region:	Asia
Persecution Type:	Communist and Post-communist Oppression
Persecution Level:	Extreme
Population:	25,405,000
Christians:	300,000
Main Religion:	Atheism
Government:	Communist Dictator
Leader:	Kim Jong-Un

Where Persecution Comes From

The main driver of North Korean Christian Persecution is the state. For three generations, everything in the country focused on idolizing the leading Kim family. Christians are seen as hostile elements in society which have to be eradicated. Due to the constant indoctrination permeating the whole country, neighbors and even family members are highly watchful and report anything suspicious to the authorities. Children are especially vulnerable to the heavy indoctrination. Reports show that some children report their own parents for religious activity. Therefore, many parents prefer not to tell their children anything about their Christian faith until they’re older.

How Christians are Suffering

If Christians are discovered, no matter if they are heirs of the Christian communities from before the Korean War or found the Christian faith in other ways – e.g. during the great famine in the 1990s (which caused tens of thousands of citizens to seek help in China) – not only are they deported to labor camps as political criminals or even killed on the spot, their families will share their fate as well. Christians do not even have the slightest space in society. Meeting other Christians in order to worship is almost impossible and if some believers dare to, it has to be done in utmost secrecy. The churches shown to visitors in Pyongyang serve mere propaganda purposes.

Examples

Due to the extremely difficult security situation, it is not possible to give examples. But the highly unusual case of Pastor Han Choong Yeol who was killed by a squad of four North Korean agents in the Chinese border town Chiangbai on April 30, 2016 may serve as an illustration. What was most shocking was not the fact of the killing, but that it was done so publicly. So if the authorities are not shy to kill a foreign Christian abroad, it may be easier to imagine how they act once they find a local Christian. Of course, every Christian caught will be closely interrogated to uncover any networks.

Pray for North Korea

• Leader Kim Jong Un has continued to consolidate his power. No changes or improvements have been seen in the past year. Please pray for Kim Jong Un, that he would come to know the one true God. Pray for change within the regime and that the power of evil in the country will be broken.
• The situation for Christians is vulnerable and precarious. They face persecution from state authorities and their non-Christian families, friends and neighbors. Pray for their protection. Pray for Christians who suffer in prisons, labor camps and remote areas. Pray that God will give the North Korean church strength and endurance.
• North Korea heads up the World Watch List for the seventeenth consecutive year. Pray that the country’s rulers will come to know God, for the protection of the North Korean Church and for healing and restoration to take place in the country.

Stories from North Korea

December 6, 2018 5 Countries Where Christmas Is a Crime

For millions of believers, the celebration of Jesus entering the world must be a risk-laden secret Christmas. They know that there… + READ MORE

November 20, 2018 4 Things Persecuted Believers Can Teach Us About Gratitude

Saman, Noor, Seojun, and Racheal can teach us what gratitude truly looks like--and why it's so important in our lives as we mature… + READ MORE

October 25, 2018 The Secret and Surprising Ways Christians Worship in North Korea

Today, hundreds of thousands of Christians in North Korea’s underground church, estimated at 300,000, find secret ways to worship Jesus… + READ MORE

Persecution of Christians in the United Arab Emirates

United Arab Emirates

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United Arab Emirates Facts

Score:	58 / 100
Region:	Middle East
Persecution Type:	Islamic Oppression
Persecution Level:	High
Population:	9,398,000
Christians:	1,206,000
Main Religion:	Islam
Government:	Federation of Monarchies
Leader:	President Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan

Where Persecution Comes From

There is a sharp contrast in the level of persecution faced by different groups of Christians in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Emirati society is fairly tolerant towards expatriate Christian communities and allows them to worship relatively freely. Converts to Christianity from Islam face the majority of persecution in the country, and they experience a great deal of pressure to recant their faith, both from their immediate families and society as a whole. While the government technically promotes religious tolerance, its promotion of Islam contributes to Christian persecution.

How Christians are Suffering

Depending on their backgrounds, different Christians in the UAE experience varying degrees of persecution. While expatriate Christian communities are relatively free to practice their faith, they also face restrictions. They are free to worship and practice their faith in private but are prohibited from expressing their faith, worshiping, preaching or praying in public. Proselytization of any sort is illegal, so Christians must exercise caution and self-restraint when interacting with Muslims. Meanwhile, converts from Islam often fear to reveal their conversion. Because most converts keep their faith a secret, we have few reports of Christians being killed or physically harmed for their faith.

Examples

In January 2016, local authorities arrested and deported three non-citizens accused of “preaching a religion other than Islam” in the emirate of Sharjah.

The government forces the country’s two primary internet service providers to block websites that are critical of Islam or dedicated to other religious topics.

Pray for United Arab Emirates

• Pray for leaders of the UAE to have wisdom and tolerance, allowing citizens to publicly change their faith without fear of persecution.
• Pray that the government will be able to keep the country safe from insurgent/terrorist groups.
• Pray for Christian converts who are afraid to reveal their faith in Jesus. Pray for Christian women who convert from Islam and lose their rights to possessions and often, their children.

Stories from United Arab Emirates

July 27, 2018 7 Vacation Paradises that Are No Holiday for Christians

Here are seven popular resort destinations that rank high on the 2018 World Watch List of the 50 toughest countries… + READ MORE

Persecution of Christians in Mexico

Mexico

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Mexico Facts

Score:	59 / 100
Region:	Latin America
Persecution Type:	Organized Crime and Corruption
Persecution Level:	High
Population:	130,223,000
Christians:	124,869,000
Main Religion:	Christianity
Government:	Federal Presidential Republic
Leader:	President Enrique Peña Nieto

Where Persecution Comes From

The strong presence of corruption at all levels of the Mexican government has resulted in various forms of persecution in the country due to a lack of protections for Christians. Criminal groups attack priests and pastors, while indigenous leaders attack converts to Christianity. In recent years, the secular ideology has become more prominent in the country, and associated groups are intent on eliminating religious expression in the public domain altogether. While the Roman Catholic Church continues to enjoy certain privileges, Christian groups are being disadvantaged, especially newer movements such as Pentecostalism and the Catholic Renewal Movement.

How Christians are Suffering

Believers in Mexico experience varying degrees and forms of Christian persecution. Secular intolerance affects all Christians who publically express their religious convictions, resulting in harassment, criticism and ridicule. In the regions they control, criminal groups persecute believers and churches, issuing death threats and murdering Christian leaders to silence them. These groups view Christian ministry as a threat to the criminal agenda. Meanwhile, indigenous Christians are often punished for abandoning tribal customs, resulting in expulsion from their homes. And Christian denominations outside the Roman Catholic Church experience pressure and discrimination as minorities.

Examples

In 2017, Christian converts from the indigenous communities of Chiapas and Jalisco faced economic sanctions, denial of access to basic services, and expulsion from their communities.

In June 2017, a Roman Catholic priest was killed in a church in Los Reyes La Paz in the State of Mexico. Since President Enrique Peña took office in 2012, 18 priests have been murdered.

In July 2017, the Mexican National Council for the Prevention of Discrimination (CONAPRED) officially declared that reorientation therapies for homosexuals (like those run by the Christian-based organization Exodus Latin America) are violent and discriminatory, making them unavailable to Christians who would choose to use them.

Pray for Mexico

• Pray for the hearts of those involved in drug cartels. They often kidnap, terrorize and even kill Christians who stand in the way of their illegal work. Pray that they would come to know Jesus and that they would encourage positive change in Mexico.
• Pray for Christians who experience persecution in the form of being denied access to basic social services and resources. Some of these believers suffer incarceration and displacement. Pray for God’s provision and grace. Pray for the government in Chiapas, Hidalgo and Oaxaca specifically.
• Mexico is one of the most violent countries in the world. Pray for physical protection for persecuted believers in Mexico.

Stories from Mexico

August 17, 2018 In Mexico, Pastor Braces for Death But God Does the Miraculous

In Mexico, church leaders are targeted because of their church's restorative work with the community--seen by drug cartels as a hindrance to their… + READ MORE

July 27, 2018 7 Vacation Paradises that Are No Holiday for Christians

Here are seven popular resort destinations that rank high on the 2018 World Watch List of the 50 toughest countries… + READ MORE

June 14, 2018 Persecution on Global Stage at World Cup–7 Participating Countries on World Watch List

Over the next month, we can look to these seven countries on the World Watch List as reminders to pray… + READ MORE

Persecution of Christians in Mali

Mali

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Mali Facts

Score:	59 / 100
Region:	Africa
Persecution Type:	Islamic Oppression
Persecution Level:	High
Population:	18,690,000
Christians:	413,000
Main Religion:	Islam
Government:	Semi-presidential Republic
Leader:	President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita

Where Persecution Comes From

While Malians have traditionally practiced a relatively tolerant version of Islam, over the past few years the West African country has become increasingly militant and intolerant. In the northern part of the country especially, this intolerance has resulted in intense Christian persecution. In 2012 militant Islamic groups, aided by foreign fighters linked to al-Qaeda, took over a significant portion of the northern region, and their influence is still felt though most have been expelled. In addition to these groups’ radicalization of the Muslim population, ongoing insurgency still poses a threat to Christian believers.

How Christians are Suffering

When radical Islamic militant groups took control of the northern part of the country in 2012, churches were burned down and Christians had to flee. After losing their homes and having their churches destroyed, these displaced believers are still affected. Although some Christians and congregations have returned to the north under police protection, they still live under the threat of attack by Islamist militants. Evangelistic activities are especially risky, often leading to attacks. Christian missionaries operating in the country live under the constant threat of abduction, while Christians from Muslim backgrounds face violence and pressure from relatives and family members if their conversion to Christianity is discovered.

Examples

In 2016 and 2017, three foreign Christian missionaries were kidnapped in separate incidents by different Islamic groups.

In November 2016, suspected Islamic militants shot and killed Moussa Issah Bary, the Christian deputy mayor of Kerana (city near the Burkina Faso border). Bary was a rare example of a Christian member of the predominantly Muslim Fulani ethnic group.

Pray for Mali

• Driven by terrorist attacks, violence in Mali has increased substantially. Pray for peace over this country.
• Pray for Christians who have been displaced from their homes in Northern Mali by Islamic militants. Pray this hardship will not deter them from loving their neighbors.
• Pray for Muslim background believers who find it difficult to live out their faith due to hostile family and community environments.

Stories from Mali

July 25, 2018 On the Run in Mali–Former Muslim Clings to Jesus Amid Jihadist Persecution

For one Christian widow in Mali, the agendas of both non-violent and violent Islamic groups have shaped much of her… + READ MORE

August 25, 2017 Christians Living amid Jihadist Activity in Mali

August 14, eight people were killed in Mali during two separate attacks, seven at the UN mission in the ancient… + READ MORE

February 27, 2017 Colombian Nurse Kidnapped in Mali

Gloria Argoti Cecilia Narvaez Argoti, 56, a nurse and Franciscan nun, was kidnapped by self-proclaimed jihadists in southern Mali. + READ MORE

Persecution of Christians in the Palestinian Territories

Palestinian Territories

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Palestinian Territories Facts

Score:	60 / 100
Region:	Middle East
Persecution Type:	Islamic Oppression
Persecution Level:	High
Population:	4,928,000
Christians:	67,700
Main Religion:	Islam
Government:	Interim Administration
Leader:	President Mahmoud Abbas

Where Persecution Comes From

Palestinian Christians are caught in the middle of the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and many people are not aware that Christians exist in the region. Their faith makes them minorities within the Muslim-majority Palestinian community, and their Arab ethnicity results in numerous restrictions on the Israeli side. While the Palestinian Territories are considered a union, there are two different areas: Gaza and the West Bank. While laws in the West Bank generally protect religious freedom, those in Gaza are restrictive. Palestinian society as a whole deems that conversion from Islam to Christianity is unacceptable.

How Christians are Suffering

The degree of Christian persecution believers face in the Palestinian Territories depends on their tradition and heritage. Historical churches make up the majority of the Christian population, and generally have good relations within society. Most of their persecution comes from the Israeli side, including visa restrictions and harassment of church leaders by Jewish extremists. Evangelicals are a much smaller group, and they face denominational resistance from historical churches, as well as the same pressure on the Israeli side. Converts from Islam to Christianity bear the brunt of the persecution, as their conversions are rejected by their communities and families. Historical churches turn away converts for fear of repercussions from the Muslim majority.

Examples

In 2016, two converts to Christianity were shunned by their families. They are still living in the West Bank and Gaza, respectively, with much caution.

During the WWL 2018 reporting period, it was reported that a convert in Gaza had been physically assaulted by his family. He is now in hiding.

Pray for Palestinian Territories

• In general, pressure has escalated in the territories due to increasing political instability. Pray for peace and stability to enter the region.
• Pray with Christians in the Palestinian Territories for courage to live out their faith and be ambassadors of Christ’s peace in the country.
• Pray that Christians would be salt and light in their communities, especially in their interactions with Muslims. Pray that they would be able to show Christ’s love to their neighbors.

Stories from Palestinian Territories

August 10, 2018 ‘The Day I Nearly Died’–How One Palestinian Christian Unexpectedly Found Life

In Palestine, Nadia* shares how she gained eternal life the day she nearly died--and became a leader in a network… + READ MORE

December 29, 2017 ‘Love Us As Well’: A Reflection on Palestinian Christians

Traveling to other parts of the world, I have learned that things are not always as clear-cut as they seem.… + READ MORE

August 29, 2017 On the West Bank: Muslim Man Becomes Secret Believer and Loses It All for Jesus

“I want to understand why God came to earth to ride on a donkey.” + READ MORE

Persecution of Christians in Central African Republic

Central African Republic

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Central African Republic Facts

Score:	61 / 100
Region:	Africa
Persecution Type:	Islamic Oppression
Persecution Level:	Very High
Population:	5,099,000
Christians:	3,772,000
Main Religion:	Christianity, Islam
Government:	Presidential Republic
Leader:	President Faustin-Archange Touadéra

 

 

Where Persecution Originates

While the Central African Republic (CAR) is a country with a Christian majority, there is a significant Muslim minority, particularly in the northeastern part of the country. In a civil war that began in 2013, the militant Séléka group has mobilized Muslims who have been historically marginalized, fighting against the anti-Balaka militant group comprised of animists and nominal Christians. This conflict has been a source of Christian persecution for those of faith who face threats and attacks mainly from the Séléka, but also from the anti-Balaka. These attacks mainly target churches and pastors. In addition to this sectarian violence, Christians from Muslim backgrounds also face significant pressure from their Muslim families and communities as a result of their faith.

How Christians are Suffering

The conflict in CAR has resulted in violence and atrocities towards Christians at the hands of militant groups on both sides of the conflict. Gathering for worship is dangerous, as church buildings are sometimes burned and ransacked. Numerous church leaders have been violently attacked. Thousands of Christians have been displaced as a result of the conflict, forced to relocate to camps and relinquish their livelihoods. Meanwhile, converts from Christianity also experience persecution at the hands of their immediate family members and local communities. These converts are often ostracized and violently pressured to renounce Christianity.

Examples

There have been numerous reports of Christians being attacked by militant groups. In September 2016, members of the Séléka militia assaulted and robbed a group of 15 pastors who were conducting a seminar. They then looted the church as well. This happened just a day after the Séléka looted two Catholic churches and killed nine people in the town of Kaga Bandoro.

In October 2016, Séléka militants attacked and killed 23 Christians in Kaga Bandoro, displacing 14,000 others in the process.

In February 2017, a pastor in the capital city of Bangui was killed and his church demolished. This took place in the PK5 neighborhood, known to be the site of the worst conflict in the city. 

Pray for Central African Republic

• Pray with Christians targeted by Fulani herdsmen and Muslim terrorists. Pray for these persecutors’ eyes to be opened to the truth of Jesus.
• Pray for persecuted believers to know God’s faithfulness and peace in the midst of earthly chaos. Pray for provision for those who give up all worldly possessions and rights to know Jesus.
• Pray for the wisdom of pastors as they minister to their congregations in the face of great difficulties. Pray that the Lord will comfort them so they are able to comfort others. 

 

 

Stories from Central African Republic

September 13, 2018 10 Women Among 14 Christians Killed in Brutal Attack in Central African Republic

Our church family in the Central African Republic (CAR,No. 35 on the 2018 World Watch List.) urgently asks for our… + READ MORE

June 27, 2018 Sub-Saharan Africa a Persecution Powder Keg—Recent Nigerian Attack Kills More Than 200 Christians

Across the world’s second-largest continent, Christians are under fire right now in West Africa, East Africa, Central Africa and now… + READ MORE

September 11, 2017 “Today, we are set free!”

Countless people have been traumatized by the violence engulfing the Central African Republic (CAR). Christians faced brutal victimization through murder,… + READ MORE

Persecution of Christians in Kuwait

Kuwait

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Kuwait Facts

Score:	61 / 100
Region:	Middle East
Persecution Type:	Islamic Oppression
Persecution Level:	Very High
Population:	4,100,000
Christians:	425,000
Main Religion:	Islam
Government:	Constitutional Monarchy
Leader:	Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah

Where Persecution Comes From

In Kuwait, Christians experience persecution at all levels of society, including government, local communities and even their families. Because no religion aside from Islam is considered an acceptable faith, life for Christians is dangerous, especially for Christian converts. Kuwaiti society is bound by conservative Islamic norms, and these norms are enforced by ordinary citizens, radical Islamic groups and a government that bows to the demands of radical groups so long as the government maintains its power base. Constitutionally, religious freedom is provided for as long as it doesn’t violate Islamic rules and customs–leaving little space for Christians to live out their lives in the public sphere.

How Christians are Suffering

While all Christians experience faith-related restrictions in Kuwait, expatriate Christians are relatively free to worship informally. However, they have a difficult time securing places for worship and are often pitted against each other to gain access to church buildings for legal worship. Meanwhile, converts from Islam endure the worst Christian persecution, both from their local communities and family members pressuring them to recant their faith. They experience discrimination, harassment, police surveillance and intimidation by vigilante groups, as well as legal problems related to personal status and property. Despite this persecution, reports of Christians being killed, imprisoned or harmed for their faith are rare.

Examples

In all state and private schools, the government mandates Islamic religious instruction for all students. Teaching Christianity is prohibited, even to legally recognized Christian groups.

Amnesty International recently highlighted Kuwait’s tightened restrictions surrounding the freedom of expression, particularly in the form of a new cybercrime law that penalizes criticism of the government, judiciary and other key groups with up to 10 years’ imprisonment.

In the same report, Amnesty International also noted that the Kuwaiti parliament recently approved an electronic media law regulating all online publications–including news sources, social media and blogs–forcing them to get a government license to operate. 

Pray for Kuwait

• According to the constitution of Kuwait, Islam is the state religion, and Islamic law is an important source of legislation. Pray that the country would move toward true freedom of religion.
• Pray for Muslim family members of Christians to see the love of Christ exemplified. Pray that believers would be emboldened to share their faith wisely with those around them.
• In society, Christians are seen as second class, foreigners and infidels (anyone who adheres to a religion other than one’s own). Society prevents them from participating in community activities. Pray that the Christian community would not be discouraged and would continue to show the love of Jesus to their Muslim families and friends. 

 

 

Stories from Kuwait

October 22, 2016 Will ISIS Infiltrate Kuwait Next?

Jamal has seen an increasing Islamic fundamentalist influence on his country in the last few years especially, much in part… + READ MORE

October 7, 2016 Upcoming Elections in Morocco Bring Hope For Believers

Friday, October 7th, Moroccans will take to the polls. This is an important time, as it can change the way… + READ MORE

Persecution of Christians in Bhutan

 

Bhutan

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Bhutan Facts

Score:	62 / 100
Region:	Asia
Persecution Type:	Religious Nationalism
Persecution Level:	Very High
Population:	793,000
Christians:	20,000
Main Religion:	Buddhism
Government:	Constitutional Monarchy
Leader:	King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck

Where Persecution Comes From

Christians in Bhutan are viewed and treated as traitors to the country’s particular brand of nationalism. The government is intent on maintaining a strong national identity and unity by suppressing “foreign” elements, including Christianity. According to the government, the definition of Bhutanese identity is Buddhism, and it works to eliminate groups perceived as threats. Ethnic religious beliefs have merged with the Buddhist identity, further ostracizing Christians, especially in the central and eastern parts of the country. Converts to Christianity also experience a great deal of Christian persecution from their family members, who pressure them to return to ethnic or Buddhist beliefs and customs.

How Christians are Suffering

Because Buddhism and traditional Bhutanese religions are seen as the country’s heritage, Christians experience tremendous pressure to conform, and are persecuted accordingly. For Christian converts, cooperative surveillance at the hands of religious leaders, families and entire communities prevents the free expression and practice of the Christian faith. Along with this surveillance, there’s also a collaborative effort to compel believers to renounce their faith. No churches are formally recognized, meaning that all Christian worship is technically illegal. Baptisms cannot be held in public, and Christian burials are often denied.

Examples

One young student in Bhutan was kept from graduating from school for no other reason than her being a Christian.

A Christian man was denied a government ID because his Christian mother refused to renounce her faith in the registration process.

A church building was recently locked up, and another demolished.

Christian farmers are excluded from participating in the traditional communal planting and harvesting process, forcing them to do all of the work on their own. 

Pray for Bhutan

• Pray with believers who violate the anti-conversion law by leaving the Buddhist faith. Pray that efforts to persecute Christians in Bhutan will actually strengthen and unite them.
• Buddhism is Bhutan’s spiritual heritage and has been for centuries, as enshrined in its constitution. Through bureaucratic means, Christians continue to be rejected and persecuted. Pray that the Holy Spirit would loosen the hold of Buddhism on the country.
• Pray with Christian converts who face strong pressure from family, friends and neighbors to recant their faith. Pray that they might be strengthened when facing persecution and that the Lord would soften the hearts of their communities, making them receptive to the gospel.

 

 

Stories from Bhutan

February 6, 2018 Pray for a Young Woman in Bhutan Disowned by Her Family

She was given the choice to leave the family or leave Jesus Christ. + READ MORE

March 1, 2017 Literacy in Bhutan: Now Martha Can Read the Bible

Sister Martha is a timid, unassuming lady. She has lived on the outskirts of Gelephu all her life and built… + READ MORE

 

Persecution of Christians in Kenya

Kenya

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Kenya Facts

Score:	62 / 100
Region:	Africa
Persecution Type:	Islamic Oppression
Persecution Level:	Very High
Population:	48,467,000
Christians:	39,409,000
Main Religion:	Christianity
Government:	Presidential Republic
Leader:	President Uhuru Kenyatta

 

Where Persecution Comes From

Most of the persecution of Kenya’s Christians comes from the Islamic militant group al-Shabaab. The group, based in neighboring Somalia, has conducted numerous attacks targeting Christians in Kenya, a majority-Christian country. Within Kenya itself, some of the country’s tribal leaders are opposed to Christianity, viewing it as a threat. The Kenyan government enforces secularism that is at times restrictive for churches and Christian believers, pressuring them to abandon their beliefs. Rampant corruption in the country results in persecution that goes unpunished or isn’t punished appropriately.

How Christians are Suffering

In Kenya, Christian persecution affects all Christian communities. Christian converts from Muslim backgrounds living in the northeast and coastal regions especially live under constant threat of attack. Country-wide corruption and crime also pose a great threat to believers. Some reports suggest that the attack on Garissa University in 2015 by al-Shabaab was executed through bribes to security officials for the import of illegal weapons and ammunition. Because officials often turn a blind eye to persecution, they encourage further acts of violence.

Examples

In December 2015, two passengers on a bus were killed when al-Shabaab militants boarded and separated Christians for execution.

In January 2016, five policemen who were Christians and three Christian men were murdered in their homes in the Lamu area.

During the World Watch List 2017 reporting period, more than 30 Christians were killed at the hands of Islamists. 

Pray for Kenya

• Many Christians living in northeastern and coastal regions of Kenya have been severely traumatized by violent attacks and face a great deal of antagonism from the Muslim society. Pray for God’s healing in their lives and for the courage to continue sharing the gospel in this hostile environment.
• Pray for repentance within the ranks of Islamic militant groups who target Christians. Pray that they would come to know Jesus as the Way, the Truth and the Life.
• Pray for wisdom for Christians in the political arena. Pray for the Lord’s protection over them and that they would have a strong voice.

Stories from Kenya

June 24, 2018 10 of the Top Persecutors of Christians Around the World Today

Christian persecution is on the rise and these are some of the worst offenders around the world. + READ MORE

January 10, 2018 215 Million Believers Face Persecution for Their Faith in Christ

The release of the 2018 World Watch List confirms what we've seen and shared over the past year. Our brothers… + READ MORE

September 15, 2017 Brutal Attacks in Kenya Near Somalia Border

A group of around 30 heavily armed men in military gear, suspected to be al-Shabaab militants, killed three men in… + READ MORE

Persecution of Christians in Tunisia

Tunisia

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Tunisia Facts

Score:	62 / 100
Region:	Africa
Persecution Type:	Islamic Oppression
Persecution Level:	Very High
Population:	11,495,000
Christians:	23,800
Main Religion:	Islam
Government:	Parliamentary Republic
Leader:	President Beji Caid Essebsi

Where Persecution Comes From

Most of the persecution in Tunisia results from Islamic society’s general hostility towards Christians. While the state has actually become more tolerant of Christians since the Arab Spring uprisings in 2011, there has at the same time been a noticeable increase in radical Islamic teachings. Foreigners enjoy a good deal of religious freedom in the country, so long as they avoid openly engaging in evangelistic activities. Converts to Christianity from Islam experience the worst Christian persecution at the hands of family members, relatives, the community at large and government authorities.

How Christians are Suffering

Christians in Tunisia experience such a great deal of persecution that most prefer to only practice their faith in secret. The hostility and pressure they face makes it dangerous to share their faith with anyone, even those closest to them. If others come to know of their Christian faith, believers experience job insecurity, abandonment and abuse. They are ostracized by family, friends and the community at large, and are sometimes violently attacked. For these reasons, gathering for worship or fellowship is extremely difficult. They also lack the right to legally identify themselves as Christians, which poses problems in daily life.

Examples

During the WWL 2018 reporting period, more than a dozen Christians were detained and questioned by the authorities for faith-related reasons.

In February 2017, reports indicated that a Christian cemetery in the town of Sfax had been vandalized. It is believed that the incident was religiously motivated.

Pray for Tunisia

• Pray for Christian youth who are rejected and persecuted for their faith. Pray for young believers who wish to marry, as they face a great deal of opposition and pressure from non-believing family members.
• Pray for those who are persecuted. Many lose hope and lack direction. Pray they will know that God is always with them.
• Pray that the Lord will hinder the plans of Muslim extremists to create chaos in the country. Pray that He will touch their hearts, that they might bow their knees to Jesus.

 

 

Stories from Tunisia

June 14, 2018 Persecution on Global Stage at World Cup–7 Participating Countries on World Watch List

Over the next month, we can look to these seven countries on the World Watch List as reminders to pray… + READ MORE

October 30, 2017 Smiling Over the Sound of Minarets

“Until recently there was no Christianity here,” Mustapha says. “Only after 2000 did the Church in Tunisia begin to grow.… + READ MORE

Persecution of Christians in Ethiopia

Ethiopia

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Ethiopia Facts

Score:	62 / 100
Region:	Africa
Persecution Type:	Islamic Oppression
Persecution Level:	Very High
Population:	104,345,000
Christians:	61,956,000
Main Religion:	Christianity
Government:	Federal Parliamentary Republic
Leader:	President Mulatu Teshome Wirtu

 

Where Persecution Comes From

In Ethiopia, Christian persecution stems from multiple sources: the government, Islam, secularism and the Ethiopian Orthodox Church (EOC). Government regulations restrict the freedom of religion, while in some parts of the country, conservative Muslims pose challenges for believers, especially converts. Secularism, particularly government bans on religious broadcasting and religious activities within schools, restrict the freedoms of Christians to worship, teach and preach. Meanwhile, those who leave the EOC denomination face persecution from family members, communities and government officials that are members of the denomination.

How Christians are Suffering

While all Christians in Ethiopia face persecution, different denominations experience it in varying degrees. Protestants outside of traditional denominations experience the worst persecution at the hands of the government and the EOC denomination. Arrests and disappearances of believers are common in the country, and those who leave Islam or the EOC face harsh mistreatment, sometimes being denied access to community resources. In some cases, Christians are cut off from society completely.

Examples

In the WWL 2017 reporting period, there were more than 100 violent incidents against Christians recorded in Ethiopia.

In July 2017, a Muslim mob attacked a 27-year-old man in his home with machetes after first attacking and partly damaging a local church building in Hirna, a rural town. The mob was incited over evangelism taking place in the area. 

Pray for Ethiopia

• The government fears that religious leaders could initiate a regime change, and as a result has severely restricted the activities of religious organizations. Pray for greater freedom for the Church in Ethiopia, and for God to reveal His truth to Ethiopian government officials.
• Pray for unity between believers. Sadly, many divisions between denominations exist. Pray for reform within all churches claiming Christ in Ethiopia.
• Persecution from family and community are common. In many cases, Christians are denied community resources and are discriminated against when looking for work. Pray that the Lord would provide for the persecuted church in Ethiopia.

 

Stories from Ethiopia

May 31, 2018 Cross Draws Ethiopian Muslim to Christ–Secret Faith Brings Peace in Midst of Family’s Vow to Kill Him

In Ethiopia (#29 on the World Watch List), government regulations restrict the freedom of religion, while in some parts of… + READ MORE

December 13, 2017 Faces of Persecution: Children Like Wasihun Give Us Glimpses of Grace

In this series of articles focusing on the children of the persecuted church, we meet the Kemede family and Wasihun,… + READ MORE

November 16, 2017 Ethiopia: Theology Course Equips Leaders to Teach the Word

In the face of persecution, Ethiopian evangelist Sube* continues to follow Jesus and even has a plan to help others… + READ MORE

Persecution of Christians in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan

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Kazakhstan Facts

Score:	63 / 100
Region:	Central Asia
Persecution Type:	Dictatorial Paranoia
Persecution Level:	Very High
Population:	18,064,000
Christians:	4,580,000
Main Religion:	Islam
Government:	Presidential Republic
Leader:	President Nursultan Abishuly Nazarbayev

 

Where Persecution Comes From

Christian persecution in Kazakhstan comes from both the government and the Muslim population in the Central Asian country. Since 2010, the regime has enacted repressive policies, strict media controls and legislative restrictions designed to maintain power. The government is staunchly secular and attempts to keep all religions, including Christianity, under control. Government officials at all levels persecute Christians, from the central government that imposes restrictive legislation to the local authorities who raid religious meetings, detain believers and confiscate religious materials. Christians face nearly constant surveillance. Muslim family members, friends, communities and imams all make life difficult for believers, particularly those engaged in evangelism.

How Christians are Suffering

While all Christian communities in Kazakhstan experience some form of persecution, Russian Orthodox believers experience it least; they usually avoid contact with the Kazakh population. Indigenous Christians from Muslim backgrounds bear the brunt of the persecution at the hands of authorities, families, friends and communities. The government is constantly working to maintain and increase its control over society, using surveillance, raids and detentions. The threat of militant Islam is used as an excuse to restrict freedoms, resulting in worsening conditions for the Christian minority.

Examples

In December 2015, Yklas Kabduakasov, a Seventh-day Adventist, was sentenced to two years in a labor camp for discussing his faith with students (who were recruited by the secret police) in a flat the secret police had rented.

In September 2016, two people were fined for offering unsolicited Christian literature to villagers in East Kazakhstan. Two months later, in October and November, the Kazakhstan government officially rejected their appeals against the fines.

In May 2017, police raided a Baptist church service and arrested 21 people. They were fingerprinted, photographed and forced to give their personal information. Later, eight of them received summary fines without court hearings. 

Pray for Kazakhstan

• Pray for healing and courage for those in Kazakhstan and Central Aisa who are beaten and imprisoned for leaving Islam and turning to Christ.
• Pray for the salvation of government authorities who seek to suppress or eradicate Christianity.
• Pray that Christian leaders under surveillance would experience the peace and rest only found in and through the love of Jesus. 

 

Stories from Kazakhstan

August 12, 2018 7 Reasons Why Hotbeds of Persecution Are Growing in Central Asia

What's happening to Christian believers in today's Central Asia republics? And what do you need to know to pray with empathy… + READ MORE

May 21, 2018 Once a Persecutor, Now a Christ Follower–Former Muslim Shares How He Met Jesus During Ramadan

Former Muslims, now Christians, share their stories of finding Jesus during Ramadan and the catalytic impact of their newfound faith… + READ MORE

February 21, 2018 13 Countries at the Winter Olympics Where Christianity Is Under Threat

During the duration of the Winter Olympics, remember to pray for Christians from countries on the World Watch List. + READ MORE

Persecution of Christians in Qatar

Qatar

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Qatar Facts

Score:	63 / 100
Region:	Middle East
Persecution Type:	Islamic Oppression
Persecution Level:	Very High
Population:	2,338,000
Christians:	211,000
Main Religion:	Islam
Government:	Monarchy
Leader:	Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani

Where Persecution Comes From

Christians in Qatar experience persecution at all levels of society, from the government, local communities and even their own families. Because Islam is the only culturally accepted religion and Sharia law is the standard for daily life, Christians have no place in society. The conservative Wahhabi Islamic norms and customs that define Qatari life are enforced by both the government and ordinary citizens, making it incredibly difficult for Christians who break the mold. Because their worship and customs differ from the norm, these believers are instantly recognizable unless they keep their faith hidden from those around them.

How Christians are Suffering

There are two groups of Christians in Qatar who are strictly separated from one another: expatriate Christian migrant workers and converts from Islam to Christianity. The expatriate Christians can only worship publicly at a designated place outside of Doha, the capital city. Proselytization of Muslims is strictly forbidden, resulting in prosecution and banishment from the country. Meanwhile, converts who leave Islam bear the brunt of the persecution, facing immense pressure from their families and local communities to recant their faith. This Christian persecution comes in the form of discrimination, harassment, police monitoring and intimidation by vigilante groups. However, because converts keep their faith hidden, there are hardly ever reports of Christians being killed, imprisoned or harmed for their faith in the country.

Examples

Numerous Christian migrant workers, many of them viewed and treated as slaves, are being tasked with building the stadium for the 2022 FIFA Football World Championship. These workers are struggling to maintain their rights at the hands of crooked business owners. 

Pray for Qatar

• Pray with Christian migrant workers, as God gives them opportunities to show the love of Christ to their employers who abuse them.
• Pray for Christian converts who feel they cannot share their faith with Muslim family members, that they would have wisdom and discernment.
• Pray that Qataris would be drawn to Christ by whatever means God deems necessary.  

Stories from Qatar

June 7, 2017 Pray for Christians in Qatar During Diplomatic Crisis

Christians in Qatar are requesting prayers for the current diplomatic crisis their country is in. A growing number of other… + READ MORE

June 6, 2017 A Day in the Life of a Qatari Christian

An exclusive interview with a Christian who is able to tell us what life is really like for Christians in… + READ MORE

March 17, 2017 Persecution in Qatar: Where Sharing Your Faith Is a Dangerous Activity

Christian converts in Qatar often feel they cannot share their faith without fearing for their own lives. + READ MORE

Persecution of Christians in Brunei

Brunei

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Brunei Facts

Score:	64 / 100
Region:	Asia
Persecution Type:	Islamic Oppression
Persecution Level:	Very High
Population:	434,000
Christians:	54,800
Main Religion:	Islam
Government:	Sultanate
Leader:	Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah

Where Persecution Comes From

Christians in this small Southeast Asian country experience Christian persecution from the government, family and society at large. Legal policies favor Muslims over Christians and other minority groups and are enforced across the country. Muslim and ethnic majority group leaders have significant influence over the Sultan of the country, who is obligated to be the ultimate protector and defender of Islam in the nation. This results in the marginalization of the Christian minority. Family members and neighbors of Christians only need to report them to authorities if they wish to hinder the practice of Christianity.

How Christians are Suffering

Conversion from Islam is illegal, so Christian converts are pressured on all sides to return to their former faith. Non-traditional (including evangelical) Christian churches cannot be registered, so they instead are treated as secular organizations, essentially recognized by the government as companies, societies or family centers. As such, the government forces them to submit financial and operational reports each year. The implementation of Sharia law (Islamic law) affects society at large, including Christians who are forced to adhere to Islamic customs and rites. When one family member converts to Christianity, families are forced to split up, making expression of the Christian faith an incredibly difficult decision.

Examples

Because conversion from Islam is strictly prohibited by Bruneian law, converts to Christianity are often separated from spouse and children, and even forced to divorce their partner.

Some Christians and members of other minority groups are denied official Bruneian citizenship, leaving these stateless residents incredibly disadvantaged.

Pray for Brunei

• Every day, local newspapers in Brunei publish reports of converts to Islam receiving  gifts and financial support. In contrast, Christians are not allowed to evangelize at all. Pray that, in spite of such unfair odds, God will grant His people wisdom and boldness in sharing Jesus.
• Pray for underground believers. Persecution against them is strong because the country is so small; there’s nowhere to run if their faith in Christ is exposed. That is why they choose to practice their faith in secret.
• Pray for Malay Muslims who turn to Christ and now face strict punishment under Sharia law.

Stories from Brunei

July 27, 2018 7 Vacation Paradises that Are No Holiday for Christians

Here are seven popular resort destinations that rank high on the 2018 World Watch List of the 50 toughest countries… + READ MORE

June 15, 2017 4 Questions About Ramadan Answered–And Why Christ Followers Need to Pray

What does the Muslim holy month of Ramadan (this year May 15 through June 14) mean for Christ followers? + READ MORE

January 5, 2017 Praying Insightfully for the Sultan of Brunei

Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah (68) is the 29th and current Sultan of Brunei, a tiny Islamic kingdom of 420,000 nested in… + READ MORE

Persecution of Christians in Nepal

Nepal

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Nepal Facts

Score:	64 / 100
Region:	Asia
Persecution Type:	Religious Nationalism
Persecution Level:	Very High
Population:	28,851,000
Christians:	403,000
Main Religion:	N/A
Government:	Federal Parliamentary Republic
Leader:	President Bidhya Devi Bhandari

 

 

Where Persecution Comes From

Religious nationalism is the main cause of Christian persecution in Nepal, with radical Hindu groups, the government and local communities all working to maintain Nepal’s Hindu identity. While the country’s new constitution (adopted in 2015) officially promotes secularism, radical Hindu groups seek to make Nepal a Hindu state again, and the government has declared conversion and proselytism illegal. Because Nepal has one of the fastest-growing Christian populations in the world, persecution of believers is intensified. Pressure from neighboring India has led to an increase in radical Hindu activity as of late, much of it targeting Christians.

How Christians are Suffering

All Christian communities in Nepal are experiencing some form of persecution, but at varying levels of intensity. Roman Catholic churches and others where foreigners gather experience the least problems. Converts from Hinduism experience the worst pressure, as they are viewed as deviating from the faith of their ancestors. Converts and Protestant churches are particularly pressured by family, friends, community and local authorities to recant their faith. From time to time, Hindu radicals take advantage of the ongoing political instability by attacking Christians, oftentimes with impunity.

Examples

The Christian community is petitioning the government to allot them land to officially bury their dead, but the issue remains unresolved.

In June 2016, seven people, including proprietors of two private schools, were arrested in the Dolakha district, accused of converting others to Christianity because they were distributing Bible handbooks to children. A few days later, authorities also took Rev. Shakti Pakhrin into custody for his ties with people already under investigation for proselytizing. They were all acquitted in December 2016.

In April 2017, “unknown persons” attempted to set the Catholic Cathedral in Kathmandu on fire. The fire damaged the priest’s residence and the western part of the church. A car and two motorbikes were also completely burnt. No casualties were reported. (source: UCAN)

 

Pray for Nepal

• Pray with converts from Hinduism, who experience persecution from their family and community and are at risk under new, restrictive laws. Pray for their protection and discernment to know when and where to share their faith.
• Pray for the Nepali government, which has recently passed an even stricter set of laws. Pray that God would move among them and change their hearts toward openness to religious freedom.
• Pray with Hindu Christians who face the ever-present threat of violence and attacks from Hindu radicals. Pray for safety and for them to sense God’s presence and love for them.

Persecution of Christians in Myanmar

Myanmar

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Myanmar Facts

Score:	65 / 100
Region:	Asia
Persecution Type:	Religious Nationalism
Persecution Level:	Very High
Population:	54,836,000
Christians:	4,369,000
Main Religion:	Buddhism
Government:	Parliamentary Republic
Leader:	President Htin Kyaw

 

Where Persecution Comes From

In Myanmar, Buddhist leaders instigate Christian persecution in predominantly Buddhist communities. Radical Buddhist movement Ma Ba Tha hails itself as the protector of Buddhism, the country’s national religion. Recently, Ma Ba Tha was banned but is expected to continue its activities regardless. Local government officials, especially those in rural areas, show bias towards Buddhist leaders. This means that Christians, who often happen to be both religious and ethnic minorities, are often discriminated against. Christians who come from Buddhist, Muslim and tribal families experience this persecution within the home because family and community see their conversion as betrayal.

How Christians are Suffering

In predominantly Christian states like Kachin State, Karen State and Northern Shan, even well-established historical churches experience attacks. More than 100,000 Christians live in IDP (internally displaced) camps, deprived of access to food and healthcare. In some instances, Buddhist monks have invaded church properties and built Buddhist shrines on church premises. The Buddhist, Muslim or tribal families of converts persecute believers, often ostracized from society. Communities who aim to stay “Buddhist only” make life for Christian families impossible by not allowing them to use community water resources. Evangelical church groups experience opposition as well, especially those in rural areas of Myanmar.

Examples

In most schools before classes begin, all students (including non-Buddhists) are required to recite a Buddhist teaching or prayer.

Converts are discriminated against in various ways. In one account, a teacher refused to give a Christian student a list of questions she provided to others to prepare for tests. In another case when a family sold a plot of land, the earnings were distributed among all siblings except the convert.

In May 2017, the army stopped three Christians collecting firewood in Kachin State and took them into custody. Their bodies were found on May 28–tortured and killed by the army.

Persecution of Christians in Malaysia

Malaysia

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Malaysia Facts

Score:	65 / 100
Region:	Asia
Persecution Type:	Islamic Oppression
Persecution Level:	Very High
Population:	31,164,000
Christians:	2,865,000
Main Religion:	Islam
Government:	Federal Parliamentary Constitutional Monarchy
Leader:	King Muhammad V

 

Where Persecution Comes From

The constitution of Malaysia prohibits conversion for Malays and the propagation of non-Muslim religions. Political parties like the ruling UMNO (United Malays National Organization) and the opposing Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) uphold and protect Islam, and government officials strive to maintain and expand Islamic influence on society, to the detriment of non-Muslim minorities like Christians. Muslim NGOs that pride themselves on being the “champions of Islam” have secured strong governmental support, often stirring up racial disharmony and religious discrimination. For Christians from Muslim backgrounds, the strongest drivers of Christian persecution are immediate and extended family members.

How Christians are Suffering

Converts from Islam in Malaysia experience the worst persecution, as every ethnic Malay is considered Muslim. Converts are viewed as law-breakers, as well as traitors to society, their families and neighbors. While authorities and Muslim NGOs monitor Roman Catholics and Methodists, the majority of persecution focuses on non-traditional Protestant groups who are active in evangelism. The president of the PAS political party, Hadi Awang, openly slanders Christians by claiming they use money to incentivize conversions. His party recently also promoted the introduction of the Islamic penal code (known as hudud law) in the northeastern state of Kelantan. This law has sown much discord and hatred towards Christians.

Examples

When conversion to Christianity is discovered, converts are usually reported to Islamic authorities or expelled from their community. Conversion excludes them from the hereditary order; if they are married to a Muslim, they often lose custody rights to their children.

The government requires all children in state-run nursery and primary schools to receive Islamic education. After primary school, Muslim students (including Christians from a Muslim background) are required to take Islamic classes. At the university level is a compulsory subject called “Islamic and Asian Civilization,” thought by many to be a government instrument for further Islamization.

In February 2017, unknown assailants abducted Pastor Raymond Koh in broad daylight. Another couple, Pastor Joshua and Ruth Hilmy, has been missing since November 2016, their whereabouts unknown.

Persecution of Christians in Tajikistan

 

Tajikistan

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Tajikistan Facts

Score:	65 / 100
Region:	Central Asia
Persecution Type:	Dictatorial Paranoia
Persecution Level:	Very High
Population:	8,858,000
Christians:	62,200
Main Religion:	Islam
Government:	Presidential Republic
Leader:	President Emomali Rahmon

 

Where Persecution Comes From

In Tajikistan, no religious activities outside of state-run and state-controlled institutions are allowed. Government officials are the main driver of persecution in the country, and since 2015 have significantly stepped up their persecution. Because all Protestants are suspected of being spies intent on destroying the country’s political system, the government is intent on controlling and eradicating their presence completely. There is almost no tolerance of religious education, and church registration is restricted by stringent administrative barriers. All Christian activity is heavily monitored. Since August 2011, any religious activity for persons under the age of 18 has been strictly forbidden.

How Christians are Suffering

Christians in Tajikistan endure various forms of persecution, depending on their background and denominational affinity. Because the Russian Orthodox Church is not engaged in evangelism to Tajiks, and to avoid conflict with Russia, the Tajik government poses very few issues for them.
As in many other countries, converts from Islam in Tajikistan experience the worst persecution, perpetrated by family, friends and their local communities. They face extreme pressure to recant their Christian faith, sometimes even resulting in beatings and house arrest. This is in addition to Christian persecution from the government. Baptist, Evangelical and Pentecostal Christians suffer from raids, threats, arrests and fines from the government, as well.

Examples

In February 2017 the authorities began a series of raids on congregations belonging to the Sunmin Sunbogym (Good News of Grace) Protestant Church in the northern Sogd region, confiscating Christian songbooks and other literature.

Two months later, they arrested Pastor Bakhrom Kholmatov in the regional capital, Khujand. He remains in secret police custody, apparently under investigation on criminal charges of “extremism.”

Meanwhile, officials in Dushanbe closed down two nursery schools. One was closed after officials found a Christian songbook; the other apparently because Protestants were employed there. 

Pray for Tajikistan

• Pray for Christians who are under surveillance by authorities and are beaten and pressured to renounce their faith by their families. Pray that they will stand strong in the face of this persecution.
• The regime in Tajikistan puts heavy pressure on “deviating” groups, such as Christians. Pray that this pressure would lessen and that the country would become more open to Christianity.
• Christians are seen as extremists for their practice of religion outside of state-sanctioned structures. Pray that this view of them would change.

 

 

Stories from Tajikistan

January 10, 2018 The 4 Major Trends Influencing Global Christian Persecution

World Watch List research indicates these growing movements are the life-altering forces influencing the persecution of Christians around the world. + READ MORE

November 8, 2017 Believers in Tajikistan Risk Their Lives to Share the Gospel

After their husbands discovered their wives were believers, Christian women in Central Asia's Tajikistan were beaten and abused. Still, they… + READ MORE

September 25, 2017 Bahrom Holmatov’s Appeal Fails

Tajik pastor Bahrom Holmatov was arrested and imprisoned for three years on false accusations of extremism. He was sentenced to… + READ MORE

Persecution of Christians in Jordan

Jordan

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Jordan Facts

Score:	66 / 100
Region:	Middle East
Persecution Type:	Islamic Oppression
Persecution Level:	Very High
Population:	7,877,000
Christians:	169,000
Main Religion:	Islam
Government:	Parliamentary Constitutional Monarchy
Leader:	King Abdullah II

Where Persecution Comes From

Converts to Christianity from Islam experience a great deal of persecution from all parts of Jordanian society, usually beginning at home. Family members of converts sometimes violently persecute or kill them for leaving Islam. Both families and “friends” report conversions to authorities, resulting in government and tribal pressure to renounce Christianity. Still seen as Muslims, converts to Christianity are constantly persecuted in hopes they will give up and “return to their senses.” Some Christian leaders pressure evangelical believers not to evangelize for fear of the resulting backlash that affects all Christians.

How Christians are Suffering

Christians in Jordan who belong to the Orthodox and Roman Catholic denominations enjoy a relatively high level of religious freedom but still experience discrimination. Muslim Background Believers (MBBs) bear the brunt of the persecution, and their numbers continue to grow. Over the past few years, the situation for these converts has worsened. Any open proclamation of faith in Jesus Christ leads to serious consequences, including beatings, arrests and murders. Evangelical, Baptist and Pentecostal congregations, in particular, face much opposition due to their being involved in evangelism and ministry. The Jordanian government doesn’t recognize these churches, resulted in violence against Christian congregations going unpunished.

Examples

Due to security concerns, examples of Christian persecution in Jordan are not currently available for publishing. 

Pray for Jordan

• Pray for Christian converts interrogated by police and abused or abducted by family members. Pray that the Lord would provide protection and healing.
• Pray that Jordan’s refugee crisis would provide opportunities for many to hear and respond to  the gospel.
• Pray that Muslims would be overwhelmed by the love of their Christian neighbors and begin to ask questions that draw them toward Christ and the cross. 

 

Stories from Jordan

August 28, 2017 A Jordanian Boutique Clothes Refugees with Dignity

Between 2014-2016, as ISIS’ destructive presence spread through the country of Iraq, many Iraqi Christians fled to neighboring countries in… + READ MORE

July 21, 2017 Tensions Rise Among Christians in Jordan

The day after the murder of a prominent Jordanian writer on trial for blasphemy, Christians and other minority groups protested… + READ MORE

May 2, 2017 Sharing God’s Love with Muslims in Jordan Is a Dangerous Task

Sharing Christ’s love among Muslims in rural Jordan can be a lonely and dangerous task. + READ MORE

Persecution of Christians in Laos

Laos

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Laos Facts

Score:	67 / 100
Region:	Asia
Persecution Type:	Communist and Post-communist Oppression
Persecution Level:	Very High
Population:	7,038,000
Christians:	225,000
Main Religion:	Buddhism
Government:	Communist State
Leader:	President Bounnhang Vorachith

Where Persecution Comes From

In Laos, Christian persecution originates from communist authorities, local leaders and their immediate communities and families. Due to the tight grip of the Communist Party in this Southeast Asian country, religion is seen as a hostile element. Christianity, in particular, is considered a Western influence and especially dangerous. The government has recently made efforts to increase the monitoring of illegal house churches with the help of registered churches, resulting in the arrest and detention of Christian believers. Provincial and local authorities hinder Christian activity, often cooperating with community leaders like Buddhist monks to put pressure on Christians, especially converts. Families of converts heavily contribute to this persecution within the home.

How Christians are Suffering

Because the communist authorities heavily monitor all religious activities, including those of registered Christian churches, all religious gatherings must be reported beforehand. House churches are forced to operate illegally, in secret. Converts to Christianity become outsiders within their Buddhist-animist communities, pressured by family members and local authorities to recant their new faith. Some believers are arrested and detained when caught engaging in illegal church activities, or when Bibles or other Christian literature are discovered. Others are threatened, fined or beaten in an attempt to make them renounce their faith.

Examples

Buddhist teachings are often considered part of Lao “cultural education,” so they are included in the curriculum at some schools. In one case, Christian students were required to attend a Buddhist temple ritual.

In September 2016, the families and fellow villages of 50 people gave them three days to give up their Christian faith. On the second day, one of the 50 was murdered.

In January 2017, the house of a church leader was burned down. 

Pray for Laos

• Pray that Christians would have wisdom in witnessing to their Buddhist neighbors and family members. Pray that their efforts would be well received.
• Pray that Christians in Laos would be able to freely access Bibles and register churches. Pray also that Christian children in Buddhist schools would not be discriminated against and receive low marks simply because of their faith.
• Laos is one of the five remaining Marxist-Leninist countries in the world, and as such, it is strictly opposed to any influence deemed foreign or Western. The Communist Party puts enormous pressure on the small Christian minority. Please pray for increased openness and acceptance towards Christianity. 

 

 

Stories from Laos

December 23, 2017 ‘Our Family Tied Us Up, Locked Us Out and Left Us”

When 17-year-old Nani* and sixteen-year-old Nha Phong* turned from their family's animistic beliefs and converted to Christianity, their family became… + READ MORE

October 20, 2017 Faith and Courage—Jik’s Armor for Persecution in Laos

Today, by God’s grace, 62 churches and more than 3,000 believers are scattered throughout Oum province through the leadership of… + READ MORE

August 1, 2017 How Prison Made Me a More Efficient Evangelist

Buddhist-background believers in Southeast Asia risk imprisonment in very difficult circumstances. Dok* from Laos was imprisoned for 13 years.  Recently,… + READ MORE

Persecution of Christians in Turkmenistan

 

Turkmenistan

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Turkmenistan Facts

Score:	68 / 100
Region:	Central Asia
Persecution Type:	Dictatorial Paranoia
Persecution Level:	Very High
Population:	5,503,000
Christians:	69,900
Main Religion:	Islam
Government:	Presidential Republic; Authoritarian
Leader:	President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow

 

Where Persecution Comes From

In Turkmenistan, Christian persecution stems from both the government and Islamic culture. The authoritarian government cracks down on Christianity through local police, secret services and local authorities. No religious activities are allowed, aside from those the state controls. Because Christians must operate outside state-sanctioned structures, they are often labeled as “extremists,” and are suspected of trying to topple the government. In addition to this government-perpetrated persecution, the Muslim community places intense pressure on those who convert from Islam to Christianity. Families, friends and local communities of converts all work together to convince them to return to their former faith, sometimes even using violence to this end.

How Christians are Suffering

All Christian activities in Turkmenistan are heavily monitored. Raids on house churches lacking proper registration are common, and members are subjected to detainment, torture, threats and fines. Religious materials are regularly seized as contraband. For converts, most persecution comes from within the home or local community. Some are locked up by their own families, beaten or disowned as a result of their conversion to Christianity. Local mullahs preach against these converts as well, ensuring that the entire community is united against them. Because of the intense pressure they face, many converts try to hide their faith entirely, becoming so-called “secret believers.”

Examples

In April 2016, Turkmenistan introduced a new law on religion that places tighter control on church life.

A Turkmen teacher was recently met by police at her job who told her she needed to renounce her Christian faith. When she refused, she was fired. 

Pray for Turkmenistan

• Turkmenistan is considered to be one of the most restrictive countries in the world. Pray for increased freedoms in the country.
• Pray for believers from a Muslim background who are fiercely pressured to return to Islam. Pray for their protection and endurance.
• Pray that security forces who are monitoring Christians would encounter the gospel. Pray that their hearts would be softened and that they might become advocates and protectors of Christians in Turkmenistan.

 

 

Stories from Turkmenistan

May 21, 2018 Once a Persecutor, Now a Christ Follower–Former Muslim Shares How He Met Jesus During Ramadan

Former Muslims, now Christians, share their stories of finding Jesus during Ramadan and the catalytic impact of their newfound faith… + READ MORE

June 4, 2017 When She Kept Following Jesus, She Was Forced to Resign

Karina, a Turkmen teacher, knew Jesus’ call for total abandonment to Him; however, she never expected the police to show… + READ MORE

Persecution of Christians in Vietnam

Vietnam

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Vietnam Facts

Score:	69 / 100
Region:	Asia
Persecution Type:	Communist and Post-communist Oppression
Persecution Level:	Very High
Population:	95,415,000
Christians:	8,368,000
Main Religion:	Atheism
Government:	Communist State
Leader:	President Tran Dai Quang

 

Where Persecution Comes From

In Vietnam, Christian persecution is due to local and national governments in addition to tribal culture. Vietnam is one of only five countries in the world that is still ruled by a Communist party. Laws are passed that disadvantage the Christian minority, and their implementation at the grassroots level leads to persecution from local officials. Roman Catholics are by far the largest Christian community in the country, but are seen as suspect for their ties to foreign powers. Ethnic group leaders see Christians as traitors to the tribal culture and identity, and villagers often work with them to persecute believers accordingly. The “Montagnards,” an ethnic minority with many Protestant Christians, are viewed with particular suspicion by government officials.

How Christians are Suffering

Historical Christian communities experience relative freedom in Vietnam, although they are still monitored by the government on suspicion of collusion with foreign powers. Politically outspoken Catholics are targeted, arrested and sentenced. Catholic congregations also have their land taken by the government for development and financial gain, despite protests in opposition. It is converts from folk religions, as well as Protestant Christians, that experience the most intense persecution, especially in the rural and remote areas of Central and North Vietnam. These believers face exclusion, harassment, discrimination, loss of property and even violent attack for their faith. Many who flee to neighboring countries for asylum are sent back to Vietnam.

Examples

In 2017, at least 50 Montagnard Christian refugees fled from Cambodia to Thailand to avoid repatriation to Vietnam.

In June 2017, vandals attacked the church building of a Catholic congregation that has criticized the government’s handling of a devastating toxic waste spill.

In 2017, several Catholic activists and bloggers and Protestant pastors were jailed, even deporting a Catholic professor to France and a Protestant pastor to the US. 

Pray for Vietnam

• Pray for proper discipleship of the many ethnic minorities coming to faith in rural areas.
• Pray for family members pressuring their relatives to return to traditional faiths and rituals. Pray that they would come to faith in Christ through their Christian relatives.
• As the Christian minority grows, the government works hard to monitor churches and curb the growth of Christianity. Pray for a loosening of restrictions and increased freedom.

 

 

Stories from Vietnam

February 9, 2018 Why One Christian in Vietnam Wants to Preach to His Persecutors

In rare video footage, secret believer 28-year-old Vang Atu shares his powerful story of God's protection and provision--after the day… + READ MORE

November 29, 2017 Being Hmong and Standing for the Gospel in Vietnam

In Vietnam, an increasing number of Hmong are converting to Christianity from the group's traditional religion of animism--a decision that… + READ MORE

November 17, 2017 Why This Bible Smuggler Risks His Life in Vietnam

Bao has given away more than 100,000 children’s Bibles throughout Vietnam, where churches gather in secret, squeezed by increasing restrictions… + READ MORE

Persecution of Christians in Egypt

Egypt

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Egypt Facts

Score:	70 / 100
Region:	Africa
Persecution Type:	Islamic Oppression
Persecution Level:	Very High
Population:	95,215,000
Christians:	9,521,500
Main Religion:	Islam
Government:	Presidential Republic
Leader:	President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi

 

Where Persecution Comes From

In a country where 90 percent of the population is Muslim, Christians in Egypt have been treated as second-class citizens since the advent of Islam in the region. The rise of radical Islamist groups has only exacerbated Christian persecution, affecting believers in their villages, neighborhoods and workplaces. The ousting of Islamist President Mohammed Morsi in 2013 has caused these radical groups to become even more violent toward Christians, whom they allege supported Morsi’s removal. The Islamic State (IS) group, in particular, has staged several violent attacks against believers in various parts of the country. Adding to this persecution is the Egyptian state’s low regard for religious freedom and other fundamental rights.

How Christians are Suffering

Egyptian Christians suffer from persecution in various ways. Those with Muslim backgrounds face enormous pressure from immediate and extended families to return to Islam. Severe restrictions on building or securing places for communal worship prevent Christians from gathering together, in addition to hostility and violence towards believers who do manage to gather. Christians, particularly women, also face discrimination and abuse in their workplaces and the public square. Radical imams regularly incite hostility and violence towards Christians, resulting in the deaths and injuries of many believers in the past year alone.

Examples

For five years, more than 1,600 Christians in the village of Kom El-Loufy have been unable to reopen their church due to fierce hostility from local Muslims and a refusal from authorities to grant the necessary license.

On Palm Sunday 2017, two suicide bomb attacks on churches killed 45 and injured 100 others in the cities of Tanta and Alexandria. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility.

In May 2017, 30 to 35 Christians (depending on reports) were killed and 28 wounded while traveling to a monastery. The gunmen tried to get them to convert to Islam before opening fire.

In July 2017, an Egyptian Christian soldier was beaten to death for refusing to remove his tattoos of a cross and Christian saints. 

Pray for Egypt

• Pray for Christian converts who are ousted from their homes for leaving Islam. Pray that the Lord would provide for and comfort them.
• Pray that God would bring even the leaders of Islamist groups to Christ, that they might be used for His purposes.
• Pray for Christians who have been slighted in social, political and legal affairs to entrust their situation to God

 

 

Stories from Egypt

May 29, 2018 “Our God Is Stronger Than Persecution”—Egyptian Widow Shares Courageous Message a Year After Attack

The widow of a laborer who died during last May's ISIS attacks on vehicles traveling to a monastery in Egypt… + READ MORE

May 26, 2018 Christian Girls and Women Are Disappearing in Egypt–With Few Being Found

Many families of Coptic girls who have gone missing believe they were kidnapped by Muslim extremists in an attempt to… + READ MORE

May 24, 2018 The Radical Forgiveness One Egyptian Mother Has for Her Son’s Murderers

On May 26, 2017, 28 Christians traveling to a monastery in Egypt's Minya region died for their faith when ISIS… + READ MORE

 

Persecution of Christians in Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan

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Uzbekistan Facts

Score:	73 / 100
Region:	Central Asia
Persecution Type:	Dictatorial Paranoia
Persecution Level:	Very High
Population:	30,691,000
Christians:	350,000
Main Religion:	Islam
Government:	Presidential Republic; Highly Authoritarian
Leader:	President Shavkat Mirziyoyev

 

Where Persecution Comes From

In Uzbekistan, both the Uzbek government and Islamic culture are engage in Christian persecution. When former president Islam Karimov died in September 2016, he was succeeded by Shavkat Mirziyaev, leading many to hope that the situation in country would improve for Christians. Sadly, this has not been the case, and the government continues to persecute Christians and other religious minorities through local authorities, secret service agents and police. Christian converts from Muslim backgrounds bear a great deal of persecution from family, friends and community members who are intent on convincing them to return to their former faith.

How Christians are Suffering

All Christian communities in Uzbekistan experience one form of persecution or another, to varying degrees. The Russian Orthodox Church experiences the least persecution from the government, as it generally does not engage in outreach. Converts from Islam and other Christian communities face raids, threats, arrests, interrogation and fines, as well as the confiscation of religious materials. Homes are bugged, phones are tapped, and groups are infiltrated. Converts are also sometimes violently persecuted by their families, friends and communities for refusing to recant their faith.

Examples

In March 2017, state officials raided a flat in Tashkent in Uzbekistan where five Protestant women were meeting together. Authorities confiscated books, a computer and a camera. A month later, a district criminal court fined the group’s leader five times the minimum monthly wage for “carrying out an unauthorized religious activity.”

Pray for Uzbekistan

• Pray for change in the hearts of Uzbekistan’s leadership and for acceptance of Christianity in the country.
• Pray for Baptists, Evangelicals and Pentecostals who are threatened, raided, fined and arrested.
• Pray for new believers who are placed under house arrest by their Muslim families to make them recant. Pray that Christian women forced to marry against their will would trust in God’s provision for their lives and faith. 

 

Stories from Uzbekistan

January 10, 2018 The 4 Major Trends Influencing Global Christian Persecution

World Watch List research indicates these growing movements are the life-altering forces influencing the persecution of Christians around the world. + READ MORE

July 19, 2017 Uzbek Beaten for Leading Secret Church: “Longest Seven Minutes of My Life”

In Uzbekistan, police and security officials raid a growing church. + READ MORE

May 5, 2017 Uncertain Future For Uzbekistan

Open Doors recently asked a few believers from Uzbekistan how they see things playing out in their country now that… + READ MORE

Persecution of Christians in Syria

Syria

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Syria Facts

Score:	76 / 100
Region:	Middle East
Persecution Type:	Islamic Oppression
Persecution Level:	Very High
Population:	18,907,000
Christians:	899,000
Main Religion:	Islam
Government:	Presidential Republic; Highly Authoritarian Regime
Leader:	President Bashar al-Assad

Where Persecution Comes From

Christian persecution in Syria stems from Islamic militant groups, family members, government authorities and Islamic leaders. In June 2014, the Islamic State group (IS) declared a caliphate covering large parts of Syria, implementing a strict form of Sharia law. Earlier that same year, Christians were forced to sign a “dhimmi contract,” forcing them to give up their basic rights and religious freedom. Syrian society has radicalized quickly, especially in areas controlled by IS and other radical Islamic groups. Government authorities are known to restrict the activities of evangelical Christians, while the families of converts cause persecution within the home.

How Christians are Suffering

All Christians in Syria are experiencing persecution in one form or another. Historical churches have been demolished or converted into Islamic centers, while their leaders are targeted for abduction or attack due to their public exposure. Meanwhile, congregations in other denominations, including Baptists, Evangelicals and Pentecostals, are easy targets for attack due to their fragmentation. Pressure is especially strong in areas controlled by radical Islamic groups; in these areas, Christians are severely restricted in the practice of their faith. Something as minor as singing out loud poses great danger. Christians in these areas are forced to adhere to the Islamic dress code, pay protection money and keep Islamic dietary restrictions, including a ban on alcohol.

Examples

A Christian leader with a Druze background has been interrogated by the security services and is being monitored. Many are coming to faith through him. Although there has been no direct threat against his life, some converts in his church are being threatened by their extended families.

A female Christian with a Druze background from the southern province of Sweida is currently hiding in Lebanon. When she converted, her young daughter was taken away from her, and her family threatened to kill her. 

Pray for Syria

• Pray for peace negotiations. The current war is extremely complex and civilians are suffering greatly. Up until now, the peace negotiations have seemed to go nowhere, yet still they continue. Pray for a true turnaround for this country.
• Because the war keeps raging on in Syria,  basic necessities are in incredible demand. Please pray that our brothers and sisters will remain encouraged by the help they receive. Also, pray for spiritual encouragement and strength.
• Pray for the Syrian government, that leaders will make decisions that are good for the Syrian people and for the future of the country.

Stories from Syria

 

April 16, 2018 Bearing the Burdens of Our Persecuted Brothers and Sisters In Prison

While we are able to encourage those around us and even pray with them in their difficulties with relative ease,… + READ MORE

April 13, 2018 A Call for Prayer: President Trump Launches Airstrikes on Syria

President Trump announced airstrikes on Syria in coordination with the UK and France on Friday. + READ MORE

February 22, 2018 14 Ways to Stand and Pray With Syrian Believers–as Deadly War Rages On

We asked our local ministry partners: How can we pray with believers in Syria, and what are some ways that… + READ MORE

Persecution of Christians in Nigeria

Nigeria

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Nigeria Facts

Score:	77 / 100
Region:	Africa
Persecution Type:	Islamic Oppression
Persecution Level:	Very High
Population:	191,836,000
Christians:	88,906,000
Main Religion:	Christianity, Islam
Government:	Federal Presidential Republic
Leader:	President Maj. Gen. (ret.) Muhammadu Buhari

 

Where Persecution Comes From

Much of the Christian persecution in Nigeria is the result of radical Islamic teaching and activity. Islam is the dominant religion in the north of the country, while Christianity is dominant in the south. Ongoing rivalries between ethnic groups contribute to the persecution of Christians who are caught in the crossfire. Meanwhile, radical groups, such as Boko Haram and Muslim Fulani herdsmen, heavily persecute believers in the northern and Middle Belt regions. Criminal groups engaged in human and drug trafficking also contribute to the persecution, and corruption at all levels of government only adds to the danger for believers.

How Christians are Suffering

In the southern part of Nigeria, Christians experience religious freedom. However, in the northern and Middle Belt regions, they suffer from violence perpetrated by Islamic militant groups. Death, physical injury and loss of property are commonplace, as well as loss of land and livelihood. In northern Nigeria, society as a whole treats Christians as second-class citizens who deserve to be discriminated against and excluded. Christians from Muslim backgrounds also face persecution from their own families who reject and pressure them to renounce Christianity. To make matters worse, corruption has made the government ill-equipped to protect Christians from violent attack.

Examples

In May 2016, church leaders in Kebbi State governed by Sharia (Islamic) law were arrested and sentenced to three years in prison. This arrest happened after local Muslim vigilantes had violently disrupted worship at their church, claiming church leaders built it without a permit.

In the same area, Christians have been facing pressure from Muslim evangelists to renounce their faith to get funding for wells, schools and clinics. One Christian villager shared that his son died because doctors were only willing to offer treatment if he converted to Islam.

In November 2016, raids conducted by suspected Muslim Hausa-Fulani herdsmen killed 45 people, mostly Christians, in southern Kaduna State in the Middle Belt region.
In July 2017, a gunman attacked a church in the city of Onitsha in southern Nigeria, killing 12 and injuring 18. 

Pray for Nigeria

• Pray with Nigerian Christians for their protection, particularly for women at risk of being abducted and forced to marry Muslim men.
• Pray for comfort for the thousands of displaced Nigerian Christians and for wisdom for Open Doors partners as they serve these communities.
• In the northern states of Nigeria with a Muslim majority, Christian communities are neglected and often left without clean water, clinics and roads. Ask God to provide for their physical needs.

 

 

Stories from Nigeria

April 30, 2018 Mother of Boko Haram Captive Begs: ‘Please Don’t Tire of Praying for My Leah’

In this conversation with the mother of Leah Sharibu, we learn more about the night Boko Haram attacked and gain… + READ MORE

April 26, 2018 19 Nigerian Christians Gunned Down in Church–as Fulani Militants Crisis Intensifies

The recent attack on a church in Benue State has church leaders and President Buhari condemning the bloodshed as they… + READ MORE

April 25, 2018 Pray for the Persecuted in Nigeria as Buhari Meets Trump at White House

Please pray with your persecuted family in northern Nigeria and next week's meeting between Presidents Trump and Buhari. + READ MORE

Persecution of Christians in Maldives

Maldives

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Maldives Facts

Score:	78 / 100
Region:	Asia
Persecution Type:	Islamic Oppression
Persecution Level:	Very High
Population:	376,000
Christians:	A Few Thousand, Unspecified
Main Religion:	Islam
Government:	Presidential Republic
Leader:	President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom

 

Where Persecution Comes From

The government of the Maldives insists that the country be run according to conservative Islamic tenets, and that all citizens be Muslims. In effect, there is no religious freedom, except for expatriate Christians who are only allowed to practice their faith in utmost privacy, behind closed doors and strictly monitored. Because the government is currently engaged in a political struggle with opposition forces, any perceived threat (like Christianity) is quickly and harshly eradicated. Radical Islamic preachers and clerics exert socio-religious control and influence others to do the same, making it impossible for Christians, especially converts, to practice their faith without heavy monitoring or punishment by government authorities.

How Christians are Suffering

Because the Maldives has one of the highest population densities worldwide, communities are extremely close-knit and homogeneous. These communities serve as natural watchdogs for any deviation from the norm, including the practice of Christianity. Conversion to Christianity is thus easily reported to Muslim leaders or authorities. Expatriate Christians are under constant monitoring as well, and fellowship is incredibly challenging due to the high degree of social control. The larger the expatriate Christian community gets, the harder it becomes for them to meet–deemed a threat by the government and society.

Examples

Due to security risks and the extremely small Christian community in the Maldives, examples of Christian persecution go unreported and undisclosed. 

Pray for Maldives

• Pray that God would lead secret believers in the Maldives to fellowship. Pray that they would have access to the Bible, considered contraband under Maldivian law.
• To be Maldivian is to be Muslim. Pray that God would reveal Himself to Muslim Maldivians in dreams and visions and that they will be led to believers who will be bold enough to share the gospel.
• Many Maldivians want to leave the country due to restricted freedoms. They often seek solace in drugs. Local media reports that drug abuse has become the biggest societal issue in the country. Pray that Maldivians will turn to Jesus to experience true freedom.
• Pray for the discipleship of secret believers in the country who are stifled by issues of security and unity. Pray for God to provide solutions to these problems so that secret believers can be spiritually nourished and experience growth. 

 

 

Stories from Maldives

April 15, 2017 This is what it’s like to live in a 100% Muslim country

Crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, bright blue skies. Everything about the Maldives seems absolutely picturesque, yet these beautiful islands… + READ MORE

March 11, 2016 Pray for Maldives – The Broken Paradise

Islamic extremism is increasing in this nation, and yet, it remains very closed-off, both to the gospel going in and… + READ MORE

January 13, 2016 This is what it’s like to live in a “100%” Muslim country

Crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, bright blue skies. Everything about the Maldives seems absolutely picturesque, yet these beautiful islands… + READ MORE

Related articles

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Persecution of Christians in Saudi Arabia

Persecution of Christians in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia

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Saudi Arabia Facts

Score:	79 / 100
Region:	Middle East
Persecution Type:	Islamic Oppression
Persecution Level:	Very High
Population:	32,743,000
Christians:	1,406,000
Main Religion:	Islam
Government:	Absolute Monarchy
Leader:	King Salman bin Abdulaziz al-Saud

 

Where Persecution Comes From

Christian persecution is an ongoing and serious problem in Saudi Arabia.  The nation is built on Wahhabism, a purist and strict interpretation of Islam. Public sentiment towards Christians in the country is generally quite negative, and the government maintains a tightly knit Islamic system that treats Christians as second-class citizens. Islamic leaders attempt to impose strict Islamic law on all people in the country, and often pose problems for converts to Christianity. Ordinary citizens pressure these converts as well, given that the majority of the population vehemently opposes any faith other than Islam. Apostasy is punishable by death for those who refuse to recant. As the small number of Saudi Christians grows and they become bolder in sharing their faith, the pressure and persecution they face from family and authorities increases.

How Christians are Suffering

Expatriate Christians make up the majority of the Christian population in Saudi Arabia, but they are severely restricted in their ability to gather for worship or share their faith with Muslims. Engaging in either of these activities is extremely risky; being discovered can lead to detainment or deportation. Saudi Christians from Muslim backgrounds face even greater pressure, and the consequences of discovery are worse, sometimes even including extra-judicial killings. Because of their faith, all Christians, whether Saudis or foreigners, risk imprisonment, physical abuse and threats on their lives. The ongoing rape and sexual harassment of Christian women is particularly concerning.

Examples

• Several expatriate Christians were recently arrested and briefly detained in raids on fellowship gatherings. Some local believers were also arrested and falsely accused of having links with extremist groups.
• Three house churches were reportedly closed recently, some after being raided by police.
• In the past year, several Christians have been forced to leave the country as a result of their beliefs or faith-related activities. 

Pray for Saudi Arabia

• Pray that Saudis who have recently embraced the truth of the gospel would become strong and mature in Christ. Also, pray that they would disciple others until the whole country knows Jesus Christ.
• Pray that Christian Saudis will find ways to share the gospel with their own family members.
• Wahhabism, a purist and strict interpretation of Islam, forbids the open practice of other religions. Conversion is punishable by death. Please pray that Muslim Saudis will come to know Jesus.

Stories from Saudi Arabia

February 6, 2018 In Saudi Arabia, Christian Mom’s Secret Faith Survives in Silence

Nawal is so afraid that anyone—especially her husband—will find out about her faith in Christ that she hardly dares to… + READ MORE

December 22, 2017 A Dangerous and Difficult Season for Thousands of Christians

For persecuted Christians around the world, Christmas brings increased persecution and requires greater caution. + READ MORE

December 15, 2017 Christmas in a Closed Country: Good Tidings from Saudi Arabia

Inside, they take off their shoes and enter a meeting room decorated with Christmas stars and garlands... + READ MORE

Persecution of Christians in India

India

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India Facts

Score:	81 / 100
Region:	Asia
Persecution Type:	Religious Nationalism
Persecution Level:	Extreme
Population:	1,342,513,000
Christians:	63,970,000
Main Religion:	Hinduism
Government:	Federal Parliamentary Republic
Leader:	Prime Minister Narendra Modi

 

Where Persecution Comes From

While the source of Christian persecution in India depends on the location within the country, most of it comes from a variety of Hindu radical groups and organizations, including the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Shiv Sena and Vishya Hindu Parishad (VHP). Hindu radicals also dominate the central government in New Delhi. In Muslim-majority areas, Christians experience persecution at the hands of the Muslim majority. In the poorer regions of the country (Bihar, Jharkand and Chhattisgarh), the Naxalite movement (Maoist rebels) also persecutes Christians.

How Christians are Suffering

Because Hindu radicals view Christians as outsiders, they are experiencing increased persecution. These radicals are intent on cleansing the nation of both Islam and Christianity and employ violence to this end. Usually, converts to Christianity experience the worst persecution and are constantly under pressure to return to Hinduism. Campaigns known as Ghar Wapsi (or “homecoming”) are used to get Christians to denounce their newfound faith. These converts are often physically assaulted and sometimes killed for refusing to deny Christ. The government continues to look away when religious minorities are attacked, indicating that violence may continue to increase in the coming years.

Examples

In November 2016, a pastor and his family showed the Jesus Film to people in their village. When they returned to their home, it had been burned down.

In March 2017, U.S.-based Christian charity Compassion International ended its activities in India because of increasing governmental restrictions. Since the pro-Hindu BJP party came to power in 2014, radical Hindu groups have accused Christian charities of attempting to convert Hindus.

In May 2017, six pastors were arrested at a prayer meeting in a believer’s home in the village of Salempur in Uttar Pradesh. The pastors were charged with disturbing the peace, creating hostility between religions and attempting to incite a riot. 

Pray for India

• In recent years, Hindu organizations have become more aggressive, claiming that India belongs to Hinduism. Pray for Christian converts from Hinduism who are forcefully pressured to return to Hinduism.
• Pray with Christians in India for God’s provision and protection over them as they boldly evangelize in states with anti-conversion laws. Pray that they will be wise in their evangelism efforts.
• Pray for Christian girls placed under house arrest by their families because of their faith. Ask God to encourage them in their faith and pray that their families would come to know the Lord. 

 

 

Stories from India

April 19, 2018 10 of the Top Persecutors of Christians Around the World Today

Christian persecution is on the rise and these are some of the worst offenders around the world. + READ MORE

April 8, 2018 In India, Pray With Rural Pastors Severely Injured in Recent Attacks

For rural pastors in India who are leading the church and sharing the gospel with others, the threat of violence… + READ MORE

March 15, 2018 ‘You Killed Them with Your Toxic Faith!’ In India, a Young Mother Faces Loss and Persecution for Jesus

In her 28 years, Kusum has suffered more for her faith than most Christians have in their lifetime. + READ MORE

Persecution of Christians in Yemen

 Persecution of Christians in Yemen

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Yemen Facts

Score:	85 / 100
Region:	Middle East
Persecution Type:	Islamic Oppression
Persecution Level:	Extreme
Population:	28,120,000
Christians:	A Few Thousand, Unspecified
Main Religion:	Islam
Government:	Transitional
Leader:	President Abdu Rabu Mansour Hadi

Profile of Persecution

Violence	15%
Church Life	99%
National Life	99%
Community Life	98%
Family Life	99%
Private Life	99%

 

Where Persecution Comes From

Yemen is currently facing the world’s worst humanitarian crisis, and Christians are left particularly vulnerable due to their faith. Christian persecution in the country is driven by government officials, radical Islam, families and leaders of ethnic and religious groups. Government officials maintain a strict Islamic system that treats all nationals as Muslims. The ongoing conflict in the country has left a power vacuum, allowing radical groups like the Islamic State (IS) and al-Qaeda to expand their operations and persecute Christians. Converts face persecution from extended family, tribal leaders and local imams, and are denied access to emergency relief that is distributed through Islamic organizations and mosques.

How Christians are Suffering

All Christians in Yemen experience persecution for their faith, but converts from Islam experience the worst of it. These converts are essentially forced to keep their faith completely hidden from those around them, including their closest friends and family members, for fear of repercussions should their conversion be discovered. If others come to know that they have left Islam, believers face detention and interrogation by authorities and death threats from family and radical Islamic groups. Meanwhile, migrant Christians also face harassment and discrimination, as well as overt violence at the hands of Islamic militant groups.

Examples

In the WWL 2018 reporting period, there were several instances of believers barely escaping attempts on their lives.

In the same period, at least 20 believers were mentally or physically abused for their faith.

In the same period, at least 10 Christian families were forced to flee their homes for relocation due to faith-related reasons.

Pray for Yemen

• The war that Saudi Arabia is fighting in Yemen is helping extremists from al-Qaeda and IS to move freely through the country. They are extremely aggressive towards Christians. Please pray that God will touch the hearts of extremists so they will embrace the gospel.
• Pray that secret gatherings of believers from Muslim backgrounds would glorify God, and pray that Christians would be able to minister to their fellow Yemenis.
• Eighty percent of Yemenis depend on aid. Aid is typically channeled through the tribal and family lines of which Christians are often disconnected. Please pray that aid will reach Christians.  

Stories from Yemen

December 6, 2017 Yemen: Christians from a Muslim Background Share Their Hearts—and Prayers

As the war escalates and famine in Yemen worsens, Yemeni Muslim Background Believers share their prayers, praising God for His… + READ MORE

August 31, 2017 The World’s Worst Humanitarian Crisis

It’s been said that those living in Yemen are dying, “a slow death.” + READ MORE

August 22, 2017 Pray This Powerful Prayer Alongside a Believer from Yemen

Pray this same prayer alongside your brother in Christ in Yemen. + READ MORE

Persecution of Christians in Iraq

Iraq

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Iraq Facts

Score:	86 / 100
Region:	Middle East
Persecution Type:	Islamic Oppression
Persecution Level:	Extreme
Population:	38,654,000
Christians:	258,000
Main Religion:	Islam
Government:	Federal Parliamentary Republic
Leader:	Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi

Profile of Persecution

Violence	68%
Church Life	90%
National Life	89%
Community Life	89%
Family Life	88%
Private Life	88%

Where Persecution Comes From

In Iraq, numerous groups contribute to the persecution of Christians. Radical movements such as the Islamic State (IS) group target Christians and other religious minorities for kidnappings and killings. Islamic leaders slander Christians in mosques, leading to further persecution. Government officials, both national and local, have threatened Christians, “encouraging” them to leave the country. Political parties who hinder pluralism also contribute to the persecution of Christians in the public space. Moreover, Christians from Muslim backgrounds face serious pressure from their clans, families and communities, who will sometimes go so far as to try to kill them. At the same time, within Christianity, leaders of historic churches have sometimes thwarted official recognition of newer Christian denominations.

How Christians are Suffering

In central and southern Iraq, Christians usually avoid the public display of religious symbols for fear of harassment and discrimination at checkpoints, universities, workplaces and government buildings. Some Christian organizations are threatened with kidnappings and attacks by Islamic militants. Christian believers, especially those who are outspoken, experience discrimination from authorities and non-Christian leaders, with blasphemy laws sometimes used against them if they witness to Muslims. Converts from Islam often keep their faith a secret to avoid persecution from those around them, sometimes losing their rights to inheritance or marriage.

Examples

During the most recent World Watch List reporting period, several incidents of Christians from Muslim backgrounds being physically attacked or tortured by their families for converting to Christianity from Islam were recorded.

In May 2017, Middle East Monitor recorded an incidence of hate speech by one of Iraq’s most senior Shiite clerics, who publicly stated that Christians, Jews and other religious minorities must “convert to Islam, pay the religious tax (jizya) or be killed.” 

Pray for Iraq

• Many encouraging messages report people coming to Christ in the southern parts of Iraq. Please pray for God to provide good shepherds for His people, and that He would fill these converts’ newfound hunger to know Him.
• Thank God for the many Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) who have been able to return to their villages in the Nineveh Plain since forces drove out the Islamic State group. Please pray for IDPs from the Nineveh Plain who are still stuck– not knowing whether to return to their villages, stay in their current displaced situation, or leave the country entirely.
• Pray for priests and pastors ministering in Iraq, that they might be living examples of Christ’s presence. Pray for the Body of Christ to keep hope alive in the country that has endured so much.

Stories from Iraq

February 23, 2018 Pray for the Return of 60-Plus Christians Still Missing from the Nineveh Plains and Mosul

As restoration of the Church in Iraq's Nineveh Plain and Mosul continues, the casualties of war are still very real… + READ MORE

February 8, 2018 In Iraq’s Ninevah Plain, God Is Doing a ‘New Thing’–678 Homes Restored With Your Help

For more than two years, occupying Islamic jihadists tried to erase any evidence of Christianity--burning churches, destroying crosses, toppling bell… + READ MORE

January 2, 2018 17 Prayers and Praises for a New, Better Year in Iraq

What's happening in Iraq post-ISIS? Pray specifically with Iraqi Christians as they continue to walk through persecution and hardship--and look… + READ MORE

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Persecution of Christians in Libya - Restart

Persecution of Christians in Eritrea - Restart

Persecution of Christians in Eritrea

Eritrea

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Eritrea Facts

Score:	86 / 100
Region:	Africa
Persecution Type:	Dictatorial Paranoia
Persecution Level:	Extreme
Population:	5,482,000
Christians:	2,540,000
Main Religion:	Christianity, Islam
Government:	Presidential Republic
Leader:	President Isaias Afwerki

Profile of Persecution

Violence	57%
Church Life	91%
National Life	97%
Community Life	94%
Family Life	87%
Private Life	91%

Where Persecution Comes From

Both the government and the cultural climate in Eritrea contribute to the persecution of Christians in this country in the Horn of Africa. President Afewerki’s regime is known for absolute authoritarianism. The arrest, harassment and murder of Christians accused of being agents of the West is commonplace. At the same time, Muslims, who make up roughly half of the population, are becoming more radicalized, resulting in increased vulnerability for Christians living in their vicinity. Conversion to Christianity is seen as a complete betrayal of community, family and the Islamic faith and brings on severe persecution. The Eritrean Orthodox Church (EOC) also has a long historical presence in the country and persecutes believers who leave the denomination.

How Christians are Suffering

In Eritrea, all Christian communities suffer from persecution, although the intensity and sources of persecution vary. Arrests and disappearances of Christians are commonplace, and they are often blocked from access to community resources. Christians from non-traditional church groups, especially converts, face the harshest persecution from the government, Ethiopian Orthodox Church and Muslim community. The government’s fear of both radical Islam and Christian evangelicalism has led to the end of virtually all international work among non-governmental organizations (NGOs), as well as restricted entry for expatriate Christian workers. Many Christians are currently imprisoned for their faith, and many others have been tortured to death in prison, or died for lack of medical attention and outright negligence by prison authorities.

Examples

While the exact number of Christians currently imprisoned for their faith is unknown, thousands have been arrested and imprisoned over the years. We have reports of numerous believers being imprisoned for more than 10 years.

In 2016, reports surfaced that at least three Christians died for their faith: two men died of hunger and thirst in Maitre prison, and a 28-year-old woman died in the same prison from an untreated infection. 

Pray for Eritrea

• A great deal of pressure on believers comes from President Isaias Afewerki and his ruling government. Pray that this leader would find true life and fulfillment in Christ. Pray for God’s intervention in Eritrea. The local church does not pray evil upon their rulers but rather that there would be a change of heart.
• Thousands of Christians have been arrested and imprisoned over the years, some of whom still remain in prison after 10 or 11 years. Pray for endurance for brothers and sisters imprisoned under horrific conditions and that they might be lights to their captors in the midst of it all.
• Pray for God’s abundant grace to those who are filling the shoes of imprisoned church leaders. Ask the Lord to equip them for the task of discipling their flocks amidst these difficulties.
• Pray that the Holy Spirit would comfort Eritrean refugees who have fled the country due to the high levels of persecution and violence.

 

 

Stories from Eritrea

October 9, 2017 Caught Between Duty & Delight in Eritrea

We sat down recently with Ruth, a wife to an imprisoned church leader and mom in her 30s, in a… + READ MORE

September 29, 2017 Eritrea: When There Seems to Be No Light at the End of the Tunnel

In his early 20s, Shiden and 40 others were caught worshipping in secret. + READ MORE

July 6, 2017 How to Pray for the Persecuted in 7 Hotbed Regions of the World

As Christians, we know and believe the most powerful force for change we have at our disposal is prayer. + READ MORE

Persecution of Christians in Pakistan

 Pakistan

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Pakistan Facts

Score:	86 / 100
Region:	Asia
Persecution Type:	Islamic Oppression
Persecution Level:	Extreme
Population:	196,744,000
Christians:	3,938,000
Main Religion:	Islam
Government:	Federal Parliamentary Republic
Leader:	Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi

Profile of Persecution 

Violence	99%
Church Life	79%
National Life	90%
Community Life	82%
Family Life	81%
Private Life	86%

Where Persecution Comes From

Much of the Christian persecution in Pakistan comes from radical Islamic groups that flourish and expand under the favor of political parties, the army and the government. Both the army and the government make a distinction between the “good” and “bad” Taliban. For the time being, these radical Islamic groups run thousands of madrassas, Islamic education centers where youth are taught and encouraged to persecute religious minorities like Christians. While this puts converts to Christianity at risk as well, the main sources of danger for them are their own families, since conversion from Islam is seen as cause for shame.

How Christians are Suffering

While long-standing historic churches have relative freedom in worship and religious activities, they are heavily monitored and regularly targeted for bomb attacks. Churches that are engaged in outreach and youth work face the worst of the persecution, although all Christians suffer from institutionalized discrimination. Occupations deemed as “dirty” and “shameful” are reserved for Christians, and many believers are victims of bonded labor. Pakistan’s notorious blasphemy laws target religious minorities but affect Christians the most, especially those who seek to evangelize. Discussion of the Christian faith is also known to attract attention from radical Muslims, making it dangerous to engage in faith-related conversations.

Examples

Converts who gather for worship or other activities do so at great risk. They are also followed and monitored. Anyone who meets with these converts is investigated as well.

In small townships and villages, Christian parents are forced to send their children to the local madrassa for Islamic education, where children are pressured to convert to Islam at an early age.

Each year, an estimated 700 girls and women are abducted in Pakistan. Some have been abducted, sexually abused, forcefully married to Muslims, and made to convert to Islam.

Christians continue to be killed for accusations of blasphemy, as well as for their low status in society. In June 2017, a Christian sewage worker died in a hospital because three Muslim doctors refused to touch him, thereby making themselves unclean, during their Ramadan fast.

Pray for Pakistan

• Pakistan is an Islamic Republic, and the country suffers at the hands of numerous radical Islamic groups. Please pray for the Pakistani government to pass laws that will protect Christians.
• Pray for Pakistani converts from Muslim backgrounds who suffer the brunt of the persecution in Pakistan. Radical Islamist groups see them as apostates, and their family, friends and neighbors see their conversion as shameful to the community.
• Pray for safety and protection for the Christian women and girls in Pakistan who must live under the threat of abduction, rape and forced marriage.

 

 

Stories from Pakistan

January 16, 2018 Killed Over a Cup of Water–in Pakistan, Christians Are the ‘Untouchable’ Caste

Throughout Pakistan (#5 on the 2018 World Watch List), persecution against Christians is rampant. Increasingly, Muslim youth are taught to… + READ MORE

January 10, 2018 The 4 Major Trends Influencing Global Christian Persecution

World Watch List research indicates these growing movements are the life-altering forces influencing the persecution of Christians around the world. + READ MORE

January 10, 2018 215 Million Believers Face Persecution for Their Faith in Christ

The release of the 2018 World Watch List confirms what we've seen and shared over the past year. Our brothers… + READ MORE

Related articles

Persecution of Christians in Somalia - Restart

Persecution of Christians in Sudan - Restart

Persecution of Christians in Sudan

Sudan

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Sudan Facts

Score:	87 / 100
Region:	Africa
Persecution Type:	Islamic Oppression
Persecution Level:	Extreme
Population:	42,166,000
Christians:	1,996,000
Main Religion:	Islam
Government:	Presidential Republic
Leader:	President Omar Hassan Ahmad al-Bashir

Profile of Persecution Methodology

Violence	72%
Church Life	96%
National Life	94%
Community Life	85%
Family Life	87%
Private Life	85%

Where Persecution Comes From

The persecution in Sudan mainly stems from the government and radical Islam, systematic in nature and reminiscent of ethnic cleansing. Under the authoritarian rule of President al-Bashir and his party, there is no rule of law in the country. Press and media laws are highly restrictive, while freedom of expression has been curtailed drastically. The government strives to maintain a policy favoring one religion, one culture and one language. Because Islam is so deeply embedded in Sudanese society, many Christians have chosen to move to South Sudan since the declaration of its independence in 2011.

How Christians are Suffering

This is an incredibly difficult time for Christians in Sudan. They are losing churches they have gathered and worshipped in for years. The government regularly arrests and intimidates Christian leaders and has demanded on at least one occasion that leadership be handed over to a government-supported committee. When interacting with Sudanese Muslims, Christians must be extremely cautious, as any mention of their faith can be construed as an “act that encourages apostasy against Islam.” Some Christians are arrested on charges of espionage, and many churches have been demolished, with others on an official list awaiting demolition. In areas with ongoing conflict, Christians are attacked indiscriminately.

Examples

In the WWL 2018 reporting period, the government closed down more than 20 churches.

In the same period, at least three Christians were killed, although exact numbers have been difficult to obtain. 

Pray for Sudan

• Pray for Christians in Sudan who face intense oppression and persecution. Pray for protection and opportunities to fellowship with other believers. Pray also for church leaders to stand strong amidst pressure that Islamic extremists place on their churches.
• Please pray that the Sudanese government will become more accepting of Christianity and allow freedom of religion.
• The government in Sudan is one of the most dictatorial regimes in Africa. Please pray for the Lord’s work in the hearts of Sudanese leaders, and that the Holy Spirit would convict them to bring justice and peace to the country.

Stories from Sudan

January 19, 2018 Faith in the Crossfire–How Sudanese Believers Are Living Boldly in a Deadly Culture

Persecution is especially harsh in the Nuba Mountains, home to the Nuba people. These believers continue to hope and pray… + READ MORE

January 10, 2018 215 Million Believers Face Persecution for Their Faith in Christ

The release of the 2018 World Watch List confirms what we've seen and shared over the past year. Our brothers… + READ MORE

October 2, 2017 Graduating with Hope in Sudan’s Nuba Mountain Region

18 students graduate from Bible College in Sudan—thanks to your support! + READ MORE

Persecution of Christians in Somalia

Somalia

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Somalia Facts

Score:	91 / 100
Region:	Africa
Persecution Type:	Islamic Oppression
Persecution Level:	Extreme
Population:	11,392,000
Christians:	A Few Hundred, Unspecified
Main Religion:	Islam
Government:	Federal Parliamentary Republic
Leader:	President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed

Profile of Persecution

Violence	62%
Church Life	98%
National Life	98%
Community Life	96%
Family Life	97%
Private Life	96%

 

Where Persecution Comes From

The two main sources of persecution for Christians in Somalia are the radical Islamist militant group al-Shabaab and the country’s tribal system. The Islamic clan-based structure of the government and society is detrimental to the practice of the Christian faith, as all Somalis are expected to be Muslims. Al-shabaab also uses the clan structure to gather intelligence, recruit members and advance its ideology. Threatening expulsion or death, they force sheiks and imams to promote jihad. Thus, imams in mosques and madrasas (Islamic religious schools) stand alongside al-Shabaab’s leadership, stating that there is no room for churches, Christianity or Christians in Somalia.

How Christians are Suffering

Over the last few years, the situation for Christians in Somalia has only worsened. Islamic militants have intensified their hunt for Christians, whom al-Shabaab operatives regard as high-value targets. Upon discovery, Christians are often killed on the spot. Al-Shabaab holds to the strict Islamic doctrine of Wahhabism and advocates for Sharia law in every facet of life for Somalis. While al-Shabaab poses a severe threat to Christians in Somalia, believers are also persecuted by their families and the community at large. If a Somali is suspected of conversion, their family members and clan leaders will harass, intimidate or even kill them.

Examples

In the WWL 2018 reporting period, shops and businesses of suspected converts were destroyed. At least three converts were forced to leave the country, and at least eight others have been forced to relocate inside the country.

Sources report that at least 23 Christians were killed because they were suspected of conversion. Details cannot be published for security reasons.

Three suspected converts were victims of forced marriage.

 

Pray for Somalia

• Please pray that the Lord will build His Kingdom in Somalia in the midst of harsh circumstances.
• Pray for protection over Somali Christians who must be discipled in secret.
• Thank the Lord for His promise to build His church and pray that He will remain at work to draw many Muslims to Himself. Pray that He will make Himself known to them.

 

 

Stories from Somalia

January 10, 2018 The 4 Major Trends Influencing Global Christian Persecution

World Watch List research indicates these growing movements are the life-altering forces influencing the persecution of Christians around the world. + READ MORE

December 22, 2017 A Dangerous and Difficult Season for Thousands of Christians

For persecuted Christians around the world, Christmas brings increased persecution and requires greater caution. + READ MORE

November 22, 2017 10 Specific Prayers for Muslim Background Believers

Muslim background believers (MBBs) face isolation and shame for their decision to turn from Islam to Christianity--often leading to financial… + READ MORE

Persecution of Christians in Afghanistan

 

Afghanistan

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Afghanistan Facts

Score:	93 / 100
Region:	Central Asia
Persecution Type:	Islamic Oppression
Persecution Level:	Extreme
Population:	34,000,000
Christians:	Thousands, Unspecified
Main Religion:	Islam
Government:	Presidential Islamic Republic
Leader:	President Ashraf Ghani

Profile of Persecution

Violence	60%
Church Life	99%
National Life	99%
Community Life	99%
Family Life	99%
Private Life	99%

Where Persecution Comes From

Because Afghanistan is an Islamic state by constitution, other religions such as Christianity are seen as alien. As a result, government officials, ethnic group leaders, religious officials and citizens are hostile towards adherents of these religions. To further complicate matters, the tribal community in the country has even more power than the state, meaning that individuals who become Christians are heavily pressured to convert back to Islam. Family members, in particular, will do everything in their power to bring these Christian converts back to Islam or to exact atonement for the shame brought upon their family.

How Christians are Suffering

Because all Christians in Afghanistan are essentially converts, they are unable to express their faith, even in private. In many cases, upon being discovered, these converts are considered insane for leaving Islam. If they cannot be convinced to return to their former faith, they are sometimes committed to psychiatric institutions. Others experience loss of personal property and businesses, beatings and even death at the hands of their own family members and communities. Knowing this, believers risk everything when telling others about Christ, also endangering those they witness to.

Examples

Due to security reasons, specific instances of persecution cannot be shared, but the case of a German Christian aid worker who was killed in May 2017 highlights the risk believers face in this country.

 

Pray for Afghanistan

• Christian converts from Islam face strong pressure from family, friends and neighbors to recant their Christian faith. Depending on the family, some even fear for their lives. Living openly as a Christian is impossible. Pray for their courage and protection.
• The Islamic Republic of Afghanistan does not allow conversion from Islam. Conversion is seen as apostasy and brings shame on the convert’s family and community. Please pray for change to take place within the country. Pray for openness to religions outside of Islam.
• The small number of Christian converts in the country must remain in hiding. The increasing level of violence creates a general sense of insecurity and there are no signs of improvement in the foreseeable future. Please pray for stability and peace in the country and in the minds and hearts of Christians living in Afghanistan.

 Afghanistan Photo Gallery

Stories from Afghanistan

January 15, 2018 What Do We Pray for the Secret Church in Afghanistan?

With more than 30 million Afghan Muslims and only several thousand Christians, these faithful followers of Christ are up against… + READ MORE

January 10, 2018 Battle of Two Persecution Hotbeds: North Korea vs Afghanistan

For the first time, the countries in the #1 and #2 spots on the World Watch List are within one… + READ MORE

January 10, 2018 215 Million Believers Face Persecution for Their Faith in Christ

The release of the 2018 World Watch List confirms what we've seen and shared over the past year. Our brothers… + READ MORE 

Persecution of Christians in North Korea

ABOUT NORTH KOREA

• Leader:Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un
• Government:Communist Dictatorship
• Population:25,405,000 (300,000 Christians)
• Main Religion:Atheism, Traditional Beliefs
• Persecution Level:Extreme
• Source of Persecution:Communist Oppression, Dictatorial Paranoia

 

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Once again, North Korea is ranked as the most oppressive place in the world for Christians, #1 on the World Watch List. In this totalitarian communist state, Christians are forced to hide their faith completely from government authorities, neighbors and often, even their own spouses and children. Due to ever-present surveillance, many pray with eyes open, and gathering for praise or fellowship is practically impossible. Worship of the ruling Kim family is mandated for all citizens, and those who don’t comply (including Christians) are arrested, imprisoned, tortured or killed. Entire Christian families are imprisoned in hard labor camps, where unknown numbers die each year from torture, beatings, overexertion and starvation. Those who attempt to flee to South Korea through China risk execution or life imprisonment, and those who stay behind often fare no better.

Through local partners, Open Doors is serving Christians in North Korea by providing them with emergency relief aid, including food, medicine and clothes, as well as Bibles, books and other discipleship materials. Open Doors partners in China also provide shelter and aid for Christians who have fled the country, as well as training for those who wish to return to North Korea for ministry.

RECENT NEWS FROM NORTH KOREA

DEC 28, 2017 SUPPORTER DESCRIBES HOW TRAVELS HELPED HIM UNDERSTAND PERSECUTION Found in Stories

Open Doors supporter, Mike McElroy, wrote in to tell us about how God laid North Korea on his heart while living in China and visiting North Korea. We always welcome stories about how God is moving in the lives of our readers. + READ MORE

DEC 27, 2017 ARE THERE REALLY CHRISTIANS IN PLACES LIKE NORTH KOREA? Found in Stories

There are many explanations for how Christianity takes hold in closed countries. In some cases, faith has been passed on for generations by families whose ancestors trusted Jesus prior to the country coming under oppressive rule. + READ MORE

DEC 13, 2017 5 GUT-WRENCHING FACTS ABOUT NORTH KOREAN PRISON CAMPS Found in Stories

North Korean prison camps as bad or worse than Nazi youth camps. + READ MORE

OCT 24, 2017 A LIFELONG JOURNALIST ASKS CHRISTIANS TO WRITE A LETTER TO A NORTH KOREAN CITIZEN Found in Stories

More than twenty years ago, a Christian prisoner in a Russian labor camp received thousands of letters of encouragement thanks to the effort of one man. Up until a few weeks ago, I didn’t know much about Dan Wooding, the journalist who launched this letter-writing campaign. But recently, when Dan stopped by the Open Doors […] + READ MORE

OCT 13, 2017 SHOULD WE PRAY FOR NORTH KOREA’S DEMISE? Found in Stories

It’s clear as Christians we are called to pray for the nation of North Korea, but what’s less clear is what we should pray. + READ MORE

PRAYER POINTS FOR NORTH KOREA

• Pray for North Korean believers who are languishing in prison camps, and for the proclamation of the gospel both in and outside the prison walls.
• Also, pray that Christians in the country would have access to Bibles and fellowship
• Pray that God would open Kim Jong-Un’s eyes to the surpassing glory of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

How President Obama Destroyed Shame As a Diplomatic Tool

by Ben Shapiro Article with Video

In November 1938, Gandhi wrote about what Jews should do to resist Nazi tyranny. He explained, “If I were a Jew born in Germany and earned my livelihood there, I would claim Germany as my home even as the tallest gentile German might, and challenge him to shoot me or cast me in the dungeon…The Jews of Germany can offer Satyagraha under infinitely better auspices than the Indians of South Africa.” Even after the horrors of the Holocaust were widely known, in 1946, Gandhi stated, “Hitler killed five million Jews. It is the greatest crime of our time. But the Jew should have offered themselves to the butcher’s knife….It would have aroused the world and the people of Germany.”

Today, UN Ambassador Samantha Power, who literally wrote the book on American inaction during foreign genocides, attempted to use Gandhi tactics on Russia, Syria, and Iran. She exclaimed, “Are you truly incapable of shame? Is there literally nothing that can shame you? Is there no act of barbarism against civilians, no execution of a child that gets under your skin?”

 

The media quickly declared Power a hero, a truth-teller. But the fact is that of course Russia, Syria and Iran have no shame. Why would they? Syrian dictator Bashar Assad cares nothing about human rights – he used weapons of mass destruction on his own people. Iran is the leading sponsor of global terrorism. And Vladimir Putin is happy to invade surrounding states, jail offending dissidents, and kill his most ardent opponents.

So what is Power even talking about?

Here’s the sad truth about shame: it only works on people who have a moral compass. You cannot shame a Hitler; that’s why Gandhi was wrong. You cannot shame a Putin or an Assad or the mullahs. They don’t see anything wrong in murdering innocents to advance their political agenda. Those innocents aren’t innocent, in their view, so long as they’re standing in the way.Evil people aren’t stopped by virtue signaling. They’re stopped with action. But the Obama administration is so used to shaming its domestic political enemies into kowtowing that they think they can apply the same tactics on foreign policy.

Instead, they’ve actually helped breed shamelessness domestically, too. The overuse of political shame has caused opponents to react with brazen shamelessness – we’re not going to be told what to do, and if you think we’re humiliated, you’re dead wrong. Donald Trump’s rise is a symptom of that fact. Shame, overused, becomes useless – it actually breeds lack of shame.

And it breeds new alliances, as shameless people sympathize with one another. Trump can look at Obama and point out that Obama’s a hypocrite, attempting to shame Putin while simultaneously allying with him. Why not just skip the shame altogether? Ironically, Obama’s hashtag diplomacy and tacit apathy has only bred outright alliance with dictators, not the opposition necessary to stop them.

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YOUTUBE CENSORING 21 PRAGERU VIDEOS

by Elisha Kraus

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 11, 2016 - Prager University (PragerU), a conservative online video production site, launched a petition today to draw attention to the fact that YouTube is censoring 21 of its videos.

YouTube is censoring these videos by placing them under "restricted mode." Many families and schools enable restricted mode in order to keep inappropriate language, and explicit adult and sexual content away from children--not to prevent them from watching animated, age-appropriate, educational videos on topics ranging from economics and history to happiness and philosophy.

In response to an official complaint PragerU filed, Google specialists defended their restriction of our videos, and said, "We don't censor anyone", although they do "take into consideration what the intent of the video is" and "what the focus of the video is."

There is no excuse for Google and YouTube censoring and restricting any PragerU videos, which are produced with the sole intent of educating people of all ages about America's founding values.

To read PragerU's petition, please click here: http://l.prageru.com/2d5k57G.

Here is a list of the 21 videos currently being censored by PragerU:

• Are The Police Racist?
• Why Don't Feminists Fight for Muslim Women?
• Why Did America Fight the Korean War?
• Who's More Pro-Choice: Europe or America?
• What ISIS Wants
• Why Are There Still Palestinian Refugees?
• Are 1 in 5 Women Raped at College?
• Islamic Terror: What Muslim Americans Can Do
• Did Bush Lie About Iraq?
• Who NOT to Vote For
• Men and the Power of the Visual
• Is America Racist?
• Israel: The World's Most Moral Army
• Radical Islam: The Most Dangerous Ideology
• The Most Important Question About Abortion
• Why Do People Become Islamic Extremists?
• Don't Judge Blacks Differently
• What is the University Diversity Scam?
• He Wants You
• Israel's Legal Founding
• Pakistan: Can Sharia and Freedom Coexist?

About PragerU

Prager University is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, founded in 2011 by best-selling author, columnist and popular radio talk show host Dennis Prager. PragerU spreads conservative ideas and values through the power of social media via five-minute videos that present clear, concise, logical discussions of the issues facing Americans today. Backed by solid research and presented by credible, well-known conservative figures, PragerU videos are a powerful defense against the constant indoctrination of leftwing values that we see on campuses around the country. PragerU videos have received a total of 150 million unique views in 2016 alone. (https://www.prageru.com/)

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Massachusetts Churches Could Be Forced to Comply with Transgender Law

by Todd Starnes Article

Churches in the People’s Republic of Massachusetts have grave concerns about a new anti-discrimination law that could force congregations to accommodate the transgender community – under the threat of fines and jail time.

The law, which goes into effect in October, does not specifically mention churches or other houses of worship. However, the attorney general, along with the government commission assigned to enforce the law, have a different point of view.

Attorney General Maura Healey wrote that places of public accommodation include: “auditoriums, convention centers, lecture halls, houses of worship, and other places of public gathering.”

The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination, the commission responsible for enforcing the anti-discrimination law, reinforced that interpretation in a document titled, “Gender Identity Guidance.”

“Even a church could be seen as a place of public accommodation if it holds a secular event, such as a spaghetti supper, that is open to the general public,” the document states.  “All persons, regardless of gender identity, shall have the right to the full and equal accommodations, advantages, facilities and privileges of any place of public accommodation.”

READ THE FULL STORY AT TODDSTARNES.COM!

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Political Cleansing?

by Christine Rousselle Article

Well here's some creepy rhetoric courtesy of actor Will Smith: he thinks that Donald Trump's rise to the Republican nomination is a good thing, because it has exposed people who should be "cleansed" from the country. He made these comments while doing publicity for his new movie "Suicide Squad."

“As painful as it is to hear Donald Trump talk and as embarrassing as it is as an American to hear him talk, I think it’s good,” the 47-year-old said. “We get to know who people are and now we get to cleanse it out of our country.”

Smith followed up these comments with some very harsh words regarding Trump's past comments about women.

Uhh... 

Listen, while I'm not exactly the biggest fan of Donald Trump, I think it's a bithysterical to say things about cleansing his supporters from the country. Trump supporters have every right to live in the United States as Hillary supporters and Jill Stein supporters. This kind of thinking makes Smith no better than Trump.

Further, why are we asking actors questions about American politics?

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Freedom to Disagree

by John Stossel Article

"Should a Jewish baker be forced to bake a cake for a Nazi wedding?"

I asked that strange but important question during last week's debate between three Libertarian presidential candidates. You can see the second hour of that debate Friday, on my Fox Business Network TV show.

If you're disappointed by Democrats' and Republicans' eagerness to limit your freedom, I urge you to check out the libertarians.

Presidential candidate Austin Petersen, founder of LibertarianRepublic.com, says individuals should be free to discriminate -- for example, refuse to bake a wedding cake for a gay couple if gay marriage violates their beliefs.

Libertarian presidential candidate, and former New Mexico governor, Gary Johnson, wasn't willing to go that far. It's a reminder libertarians don't always see eye to eye.

"If we discriminate on the basis of religion," said Johnson, "you're going to find a whole class of people discriminated against. ... So it's harm to others."

Many people agree, but the debate over the Nazi wedding cake is a reminder that laws with good intentions often have bad consequences. If sellers can't decide to whom they will sell, they may be forced to participate in activities they consider immoral.

Without freedom, people can't reveal their true preferences and show us where they stand. I'd like to know which businesses bigots run. 

Petersen was quick to add that he would never buy anything from a shop that refused to serve gays. "I would stand outside these people's store and I would encourage a boycott."

Most libertarians argue that it isn't government's job to tell people how to conduct private business. As Petersen put it, "Government is not supposed to make us into better people. That's not what the United States was founded on. The United States was founded so that we could be whatever we wanted."

Some of us may want to be jerks. As long as we do it with our own bodies and our own property, that's part of freedom, say most libertarians.

The other candidate in the forum, software entrepreneur John McAfee, found a middle ground. He pointed out that whether we allow a business to discriminate may depend on whether consumers have options, as consumers usually do.

"If you're the only baker in town, it may be a problem," he said, but normally, "no one is forcing you to buy anything."

The free market gives people choices. There are lots of bakers, but just one government. That's why government must never discriminate, but if private businesses cannot, does "private" have real meaning? What about freedom of association?

Most businesses eagerly take money from gay customers -- or Muslims or transgender people or people of a different race. A few won't. That's part of the diversity of a free country, and a beauty of a free market is that customers punish bigoted businesses.

All three Libertarian Party candidates understand that. But tune in and see what you think.

Petersen was the only candidate of the three to call himself "pro-life." But on abortion, as with cakes, he wants people to find solutions without involving government.

"The president has no authority to enact laws on abortion," he said. If Petersen were president, he said he would "try and find every non-coercive measure that we can to end abortion. And there are options. Ending the federal war on drugs would allow women to purchase birth control over the counter."

But like his libertarian opponents, he would not send government in to make these decisions. Gov. Johnson said, "I do not think it is the federal government's job or the state government's job to interfere in this process." McAfee said, "A woman's right to her own body is one of the fundamental issues in this country."

Sometimes libertarians sound like conservatives, sometimes like liberals. Unlike conservatives and liberals, however, libertarians stick to the idea of keeping government out of our business. Government is force, and life is better when people are left free to make their own choices.

If we didn't try to use government to boss each other around, think how much more pleasant, and free, life would be.

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Offensive Speech

Every Knee Shall Bow before Jesus

by Matt Barber Article

My goal here is not to offend. Neither is it to persuade. In matters of the spirit, there is but One capable of opening the eyes of the heart. Rather, my objective is to sow seeds of Truth so that the Holy Spirit might, according to His perfect pleasure, purpose and will, cultivate the soul as He deems just.

We Christ followers are admonished to love our enemies and to pray for those who persecute us (see Matthew 5:44). This obliges us to at once love and pray for, among other antichrist subsets, the 1.2 billion Muslims worldwide, including the hundreds-of-millions who faithfully embrace Muhammad’s myriad commands to wage violence against the Christian, the Jew and all other non-Muslims.

It is impossible to do this in our flesh and can only be accomplished through the supernatural grace and power of the Holy Spirit. It is, indeed, our great hope and prayer that every Muslim – every human being – might surrender self and come to the saving knowledge and grace of Christ Jesus, who, alone, is “the way and the truth and the life.” For, “No one comes to the Father except through [Him]” (see John 14:6).

To be sure, it is the express desire of both God the Father and Christ His Son that each and every Muslim on earth should abandon Muhammad’s broad path to perdition, turnabout and move toward Christ’s narrow path to eternal life. “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9).

 

God both created and loves, in a way incomprehensible to the finite human mind, every human being ever born, or otherwise. He wove us together in our mother’s wombs and numbered our every hair. Yet God the Father has but one begotten Son. The rest of us, in order to become God’s children, must be adopted and grafted into the vine by, in and through the One who is the Son – He who is the Vine: Christ Jesus (see John 15:5).

Those who are not adopted by God are not children of God.

And so the Muslim is not a child of God.

Indeed, to become a child of God, we must ask God, through Christ, to adopt us. We mustn’t just believe upon Him – for “Even the demons believe that” (see James 2:19) – but, rather, we must also receive Him as Lord and Savior. We must follow Jesus, the one true God, as our only God. “But to all who believed him (Jesus) and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God” (John 1:12).

The pluralist notion that, “There are many paths to God,” is an insidious lie spread by the father of lies himself. Jesus said, “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it” (Matthew 7:13).

Jesus is the “narrow gate.”

Merriam Webster defines “pluralism” as “a theory that there are more than one or more than two kinds of ultimate reality.”

To embrace pluralism is to embrace certain death.

The aim of pluralist philosophy is to muddy the waters and divert mankind from the “narrow gate” that leads to eternal salvation (Jesus), while, at one go, herding us along the “broad road” to eternal damnation (anything and everything that denies the singular and exclusive deity of Christ, or that rejects the certainty that He alone can save us from hell).

Pluralism is a non-starter. It is inherently self-contradictory and, therefore, self-defeating. Each of the world’s major religions fundamentally contradicts the other. They cannot all be true. Either one is true or none is true. Pick your “ism,” be it Muhammadism, Hinduism, Buddhism, humanism, atheism, et al., and, serving to undo each, you will find the leavening lie of pluralism.

Christ is both tolerant and intolerant, utterly exclusive and wholly inclusive. Romans 10:13promises, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord (Jesus) will be saved.” And John 3:36warns, “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on him.”

Not only do Muslims reject Christ, the Son of God, but those who are faithful to the teachings of their “prophet” Muhammad persecute, under flame and sword, His very body: the Christian faithful.

As I’ve said before, Islam is Christianity’s photo-negative. While Christianity brings eternal life to those choosing to surrender to Jesus, who, as He declared in no uncertain terms, is, alone, “the way and the truth and the life,” Islam brings eternal death to those who surrender to Allah, who, as declared Muhammad, is “the best of deceivers” (“[A]nd Allah was deceptive, for Allah is the best of deceivers.” [see Surah 3:54])

It’s worth again mentioning here that the Bible similarly calls Satan a deceiver. Revelation 12:9, for instance, explains that he “deceives the whole world.” Even though it is often claimed that Muslims, Christians and Jews “worship the same God,” this is so very much not so. Allah is not God. Allah is the deceiver, and, insofar as Christianity, true Christianity, spreads peace, love and truth – Islam, true Islam, spreads violence, hate and deception. Allah definitely exists. He’s just not God. Though he wanted to “ascend above the tops of the clouds” and “make [himself] like the Most High” (see Isaiah 14:14), Allah, most assuredly, is not God.

Indeed, the “best of deceivers” cares not whether we worship the idol of self, as do the secular-”progressives,” the deceiver himself, as do the Muslims, or some other false god. The deceptive one cares only that we deny God the Father, Christ His Son and the Holy Spirit, three in one.

To the Muslim, to everyone, know this: You may deny Christ until the day you die. But soon after, you will deny Him no more. Hate Him you may still, but deny Him you will not. Philippians 2:10-11 assures us, “that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

The die was cast before time began. Every Christian, Jew, atheist and pagan, to include each and every Muslim on earth – or, like Muhammad, who once walked the earth – will, in the end, bow a knee in worship to Jesus.

Because “in the end” is just the beginning.

Yet, whether you bow first in this life, or first in the next, you will bow.

And the when and how will mean much.

For it will decide the where and how of your eternity.

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Religious Freedom - Kuwait

The constitution provides for freedom of belief; however, other laws and policies restrict religious freedom and the government generally enforced these restrictions. While guaranteeing freedom of religious practice, the constitution stipulates that such practice must be in accordance with established customs and not conflict with public order or morals; it also makes Islam the state religion and Islamic law (sharia) a main source of legislation. Religious minorities experienced some discrimination as a result of government policy. Officially recognized groups often lacked adequate worship space and had difficulty in securing land for new facilities; municipal and other authorities pressured some unrecognized groups to vacate unlicensed spaces in which they practiced their faith. The courts convicted and sent to prison some individuals for denigrating religion.

There were reports of societal abuses or discrimination based on religious affiliation, belief, or practice. While most citizens and noncitizen residents respected the rights of individuals to worship freely, a smaller but strident number sought to limit that right, particularly for non-Sunni Muslims. Regional conflicts with sectarian components, especially in Syria, exacerbated tensions between Sunnis and Shia. Owners and managers of public spaces used by unregistered groups for religious practice reported pressure to stop allowing unlicensed gatherings.

The Ambassador and other embassy officers advocated to the government for the allocation of sufficient worship facilities for religious groups that lack adequate space. The embassy also engaged throughout the year with representatives of the major Muslim and non-Muslim communities, including those denominations and faiths that the government does not recognize. The embassy nominated young professionals to participate in exchange programs dedicated to increasing religious tolerance and worked with alumni of such exchanges to foster local interfaith dialogue.

Download the US State Department's 2013 report on religious freedom in Kuwait.

Basil of Caesarea: Letter to the Bishops of Italy and Gaul Concerning the Condition and Confusion of the Churches (376)

1.  To his brethren truly God-beloved and very dear, and fellow ministers of like mind, the bishops of Gaul and Italy, Basil, bishop of Cæsarea in Cappadocia.  Our Lord Jesus Christ, Who has deigned to style the universal Church of God His body, and has made us individually members one of another, has moreover granted to all of us to live in intimate association with one another, as befits the agreement of the members.  Wherefore, although we dwell far away from one another, yet, as regards our close conjunction, we are very near.  Since, then, the head cannot say to the feet, I have no need of you, [1 Cor. xii. 21] you will not, I am sure, endure to reject us; you will, on the contrary, sympathize with us in the troubles to which, for our sins, we have been given over, in proportion as we rejoice together with you in your glorying in the peace which the Lord has bestowed on you.  Ere now we have also at another time invoked your charity to send us succour and sympathy; but our punishment was not full, and you were not suffered to rise up to succour us.  One chief object of our desire is that through you the state of confusion in which we are situated should be made known to the emperor of your part of the world. If this is difficult, we beseech you to send envoys to visit and comfort us in our affliction, that you may have the evidence of eyewitnesses of those sufferings of the East which cannot be told by word of mouth, because language is inadequate to give a clear report of our condition.

2.  Persecution has come upon us, right honourable brethren, and persecution in the severest form.  Shepherds are persecuted that their flocks may be scattered.  And the worst of all is that those who are being treated ill cannot accept their sufferings in proof of their testimony, nor can the people reverence the athletes as in the army of martyrs, because the name of Christians is applied to the persecutors.  The one charge which is now sure to secure severe punishment is the careful keeping of the traditions of the Fathers.  For this the pious are exiled from their homes, and are sent away to dwell in distant regions.  No reverence is shown by the judges of iniquity to the hoary head, to practical piety, to the life lived from boyhood to old age according to the Gospel.  No malefactor is doomed without proof, but bishops have been convicted on calumny alone, and are consigned to penalties on charges wholly unsupported by evidence.  Some have not even known who has accused them, nor been brought before any tribunal, nor even been falsely accused at all.  They have been apprehended with violence late at night, have been exiled to distant places, and, through the hardships of these remote wastes, have been given over to death. The rest is notorious, though I make no mention of it—the flight of priests; the flight of deacons; the foraying of all the clergy.  Either the image must be worshipped, or we are delivered to the wicked flame of whips. [Dan. iii. 10]  The whips seem as rhetorical as the image and the flame.  The laity groan; tears are falling without ceasing in public and in private; all are mutually lamenting their woes.  No one’s heart is so hard as to lose a father, and bear the bereavement meekly.  There is a sound of them that mourn in the city—a sound in the fields, in the roads, in the deserts.  But one voice is heard from all that utter sad and piteous words.  Joy and spiritual gladness are taken away.  Our feasts are turned into mourning. [Amos viii. 10]  Our houses of prayer are shut.  The altars of the spiritual service are lying idle.  Christians no longer assemble together; teachers no longer preside.  The doctrines of salvation are no longer taught.  We have no more solemn assemblies, no more evening hymns, no more of that blessed joy of souls which arises in the souls of all that believe in the Lord at communions, and the imparting of spiritual boons. We may well say, “Neither is there at this time prince, or prophet, or reader, or offering, or incense, or place to sacrifice before thee, and to find mercy.” [Song of the Three Children, 14]

3.  We are writing to those who know these things, for there is not a region of the world which is ignorant of our calamities.  Do not suppose that we are using these words as though to give information, or to recall ourselves to your recollection.  We know that you could no more forget us than a mother forget the sons of her womb. [Is. xlix. 15]  But all who are crushed by any weight of agony find some natural alleviation for their pain in uttering groans of distress, and it is for this that we are doing as we do.  We get rid of the load of our grief in telling you of our manifold misfortunes, and in expressing the hope that you may haply be the more moved to pray for us, and may prevail on the Lord to be reconciled to us.  And if these afflictions had been confined to ourselves, we might even have determined to keep silence, and to rejoice in our sufferings for Christ’s sake, since “the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.” [Rom. viii. 18]  But at the present time we are alarmed, lest the mischief growing day by day, like a flame spreading through some burning wood, when it has consumed what is close at hand, may catch distant objects too.  The plague of heresy is spreading, and there is ground of apprehension lest, when it has devoured our Churches, it may afterwards creep on even so far as to the sound portion of your district. Peradventure it is because with us iniquity has abounded that we have been first delivered to be devoured by the cruel teeth of the enemies of God.  But the gospel of the kingdom began in our regions, and then went forth over all the world.  So, peradventure—and this is most probable—the common enemy of our souls, is striving to bring it about that the seeds of apostasy, originating in the same quarter, should be distributed throughout the world.  For the darkness of impiety plots to come upon the very hearts whereon the “light of the knowledge” of Christ has shone. [2 Cor. iv. 6]

4.  Reckon then, as true disciples of the Lord, that our sufferings are yours.  We are not being attacked for the sake of riches, or glory, or any temporal advantages.  We stand in the arena to fight for our common heritage, for the treasure of the sound faith, derived from our Fathers.  Grieve with us, all ye who love the brethren, at the shutting of the mouths of our men of true religion, and at the opening of the bold and blasphemous lips of all that utter unrighteousness against God. [Ps. lxxiii. 8, LXX]  The pillars and foundation of the truth are scattered abroad.  We, whose insignificance has allowed of our being overlooked, are deprived of our right of free speech.  Do ye enter into the struggle, for the people’s sake.  Do not think only of your being yourselves moored in a safe haven, where the grace of God gives you shelter from the tempest of the winds of wickedness.  Reach out a helping hand to the Churches that are being buffeted by the storm, lest, if they be abandoned, they suffer complete shipwreck of the faith.  Lament for us, in that the Only-begotten is being blasphemed, and there is none to offer contradiction.  The Holy Ghost is being set at nought and he who is able to confute the error has been sent into exile.  Polytheism has prevailed.  Our opponents own a great God and a small God.  “Son” is no longer a name of nature, but is looked upon as a title of some kind of honour.  The Holy Ghost is regarded not as complemental of the Holy Trinity, nor as participating in the divine and blessed Nature, but as in some sort one of the number of created beings, and attached to Father and Son, at mere haphazard and as occasion may require.  “Oh that my head were waters, and mine eyes a fountain of tears,” [Jer. ix. 1] and I will weep many days for the people who are being driven to destruction by these vile doctrines.  The ears of the simple are being led astray, and have now got used to heretical impiety.  The nurslings of the Church are being brought up in the doctrines of iniquity.  What are they to do?  Our opponents have the command of baptisms; they speed the dying on their way; they visit the sick; they console the sorrowful; they aid the distressed; they give succour of various kinds; they communicate the mysteries.  All these things, as long as the performance of them is in their hands, are so many ties to bind the people to their views.  The result will be that in a little time, even if some liberty be conceded to us, there is small hope that they who have been long under the influence of error will be recalled to recognition of the truth.

5.  Under these circumstances it would have been well for many of us to have travelled to your reverences, and to have individually reported each his own position.  You may now take as a proof of the sore straits in which we are placed the fact that we are not even free to travel abroad.  For if any one leaves his Church, even for a very brief space, he will leave his people at the mercy of those who are plotting their ruin.  By God’s mercy instead of many we have sent one, our very reverend and beloved brother the presbyter Dorotheus.  He is fully able to supply by his personal report whatever has been omitted in our letter, for he has carefully followed all that has occurred, and is jealous of the right faith.  Receive him in peace, and speedily send him back to us, bringing us good news of your readiness to succour the brotherhood. 

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