Faith
Court Scrutinizes Christian Bans in Turkey
Faith Facts
- The European Court of Human Rights is reviewing 20 cases of Christians barred from re-entering Turkey for alleged national security reasons.
- Over 160 foreigners, often involved in church ministry, have faced bans since 2019 despite lacking criminal records.
- Recent reports reveal over 300 Christians have been affected, facing entry bans, discrimination, and violence against their church communities.
Concerns are rising as Christian believers in Turkey endure government restrictions that undermine their right to worship and gather in peace. Many faithful families, who have called Turkey home for years, are being labeled as threats solely for living out their faith in Jesus Christ.
The government’s use of codes to expel or block devoted Christians from Turkey shows increasing challenges to religious liberty. This troubling reality has prompted faith leaders and advocates to call for protection of peaceful worship and lawful ministry.
“Peaceful worship and participation in church life are not threats to national security,” said Lidia Rider, legal officer for ADF International.
The European court’s decision to examine these cases jointly is a critical step for believers who face arbitrary rejection at borders or unjust removal from their homes. Christian family values and freedom of assembly must be upheld and defended wherever they are threatened.
Churches in Turkey have reported violence, vandalism, and social media attacks alongside discrimination in jobs and public life. These trials draw Christians together in steadfast prayer, trusting God’s promises and persevering in their faith-filled mission.
May the courage of these believers inspire us to stand boldly for religious freedom and cherish the God-given rights of all to worship in spirit and truth.