Christians see a rise in persecution in more countries than any other religion
EXCLUSIVE REPORT — The world is witnessing a concerning escalation in the persecution of Christians, with reports highlighting a dramatic increase in targeted violence, legal discrimination, and societal exclusion across multiple regions. Advocacy groups and human rights organizations are raising urgent alarms about the growing threats faced by Christian communities worldwide.
Organizations such as Open Doors and the International Christian Concern (ICC) report that countries like North Korea, Afghanistan, Nigeria, and parts of the Middle East remain hotspots for anti-Christian hostility. However, even in some democracies, subtle forms of discrimination are becoming increasingly prevalent, raising concerns about the erosion of fundamental freedoms.
In response, activists are urging international bodies such as the United Nations and regional organizations to take concrete steps to protect religious minorities. Calls for greater enforcement of human rights treaties and stronger diplomatic engagement with offending nations are growing louder.
Escalating Violence and Targeted Attacks
The attacks on Christians are becoming increasingly violent, with churches, Christian institutions, and believers facing relentless targeting. Open Doors’ World Watch List, released on January 17, highlights widespread digital surveillance and forced displacement, with tens of thousands of Christians uprooted globally.
Key findings from the reports include:
- 4,998 Christians murdered for their faith in 2023.
- 14,766 churches and Christian properties attacked.
- 295,120 Christians forcibly displaced due to violence and discrimination.
North Korea: The “Most Dangerous Place” for Christians
Both reports spotlight North Korea as the most perilous nation for Christians. The regime of Kim Jong Un has strengthened its borders with China, making it nearly impossible for Christians to flee or receive external aid.
“Being discovered as a follower of Jesus is effectively a death sentence,” the reports state. Christians in North Korea endure oppression in every facet of their lives, with the regime imposing maximum pressure to suppress religious expression.
Christmas Eve Attack in Bangladesh
The arson attack occurred while residents were away in a nearby village attending prayers and celebrating Christmas, according to the Daily Star. Locals reported that 17 of the 19 houses in the village were entirely gutted, leaving the community devastated.
“This is a tragedy for an already vulnerable group,” said Archbishop Bejoy D’Cruze of Dhaka, who confirmed the attack. “It is true that at Lama area, Chattogram Hill Tracts, about 25 houses were burnt on December 25 morning while the Christians went to the other village for Christmas service.”
The affected community had recently rebuilt their homes in a new district after being displaced several years ago, making the attack a harsh reminder of their precarious existence.
“We strongly condemn these heinous activities. It is against the vulnerable indigenous Christians,” the archbishop told Crux, calling for justice and accountability.
Catholics Request Security After Church Attacks in India
In central India, anti-Christian assaults by Hindu activists have prompted local Catholic leaders to call for heightened security measures. The attacks occurred on January 21, when Hindu radicals placed saffron flags—a symbol of Hindu identity—on the rooftops of four Protestant churches in the Jhabua district of Madhya Pradesh.
The assaults followed Sunday services and coincided with celebrations of a new temple consecration to Lord Ram in neighboring Uttar Pradesh, believed to be the birthplace of the Hindu deity. The incidents have raised concerns about the growing influence of right-wing Hindu nationalism under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, often described as the “saffronization” of India’s democracy.
Three of the targeted churches were Pentecostal prayer halls managed by Shalom Church, and the fourth belonged to the Church of South India, one of the largest Protestant denominations in the country.
“A crowd started their rally on motorcycles from a local market and ended with hoisting saffron flags. It all seemed pre-planned,” said Bishop Paul Muniya of Shalom Church. Videos of the attack show youths tying saffron flags depicting Lord Ram to crosses on church rooftops.
Africa: The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Somalia are witnessing the highest rates of persecution
Christian communities in Africa are facing unprecedented levels of persecution, with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Somalia emerging as the most affected countries. Reports from human rights organizations highlight the alarming scale of violence and discrimination in these regions.
- DRC: Armed groups, particularly in the eastern provinces, have intensified attacks on Christian villages and places of worship. These assaults often result in mass casualties, displacement, and the destruction of religious institutions.
- Somalia: Christians, especially converts from Islam, live under constant threat from extremist groups like Al-Shabaab, which have openly targeted religious minorities through executions and public intimidation.
Advocacy groups are calling on the international community to take swift action to address the growing crisis, emphasizing the need for humanitarian aid, diplomatic pressure, and protective measures for vulnerable populations. The escalation of persecution underscores the urgent need for global solidarity in defending religious freedom and human rights.
Hope Amid Hostility
Despite the increasing challenges, Christian communities worldwide continue to show resilience and unwavering faith. Advocacy groups and faith leaders are determined to amplify the voices of the persecuted and demand accountability for these atrocities.
As the global crisis deepens, Diplomat Times remains steadfast in its commitment to reporting on these critical issues, ensuring that the plight of persecuted Christians is brought to light and that justice is pursued for those who suffer in silence.
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