Faith
Christian Persecution Reaches Unprecedented Global High
Faith Facts
- 388 million Christians face high levels of persecution worldwide, according to Open Doors US.
- Nigeria remains the world’s deadliest hotspot for faith-related killings, accounting for most global Christian deaths.
- China and North Korea are aggressively restricting Christian worship and monitoring believers with advanced surveillance.
Christian persecution is expanding at a record-setting pace, with over 388 million believers now experiencing significant opposition for their faith. The annual World Watch List highlights that discrimination against Christians affects over one in seven believers worldwide, underscoring the urgent need for prayer and advocacy.
The situation is especially severe in sub-Saharan Africa, where deadly violence against followers of Christ is most concentrated. Nigeria leads in faith-related killings, with thousands of believers losing their lives solely for professing Christ.
“We’re seeing a continuation of a multi-year trend where persecution is expanding,”
said Ryan Brown, CEO of Open Doors US.
Oppression is also intensifying through government crackdowns and surveillance, particularly in China where churches are shuttered and believers face increasing state controls. In North Korea, new methods like artificial intelligence are being harnessed to identify Christians in hiding.
Despite mounting threats and government hostility, Christians around the globe are standing firm in their faith, demonstrating the Biblical call to endure trials and stand courageously for Christ. This rising tide of persecution calls for the Christian community to intercede faithfully for our brothers and sisters and to defend religious liberty wherever it is threatened.