World Index of Persecution of Christians 2025: A Chilling Observation for the Faithful
A report that shakes consciences
On February 25, 2025, Open Doors revealed its Global Index of Christian Persecution, a shocking document that alerts to the growing violence suffered by nearly 380 million faithful around the world. Intended primarily for evangelical Christians and committed Catholics, this annual report highlights crisis areas where faith is lived at the risk of one’s life.
Top 5 Most Dangerous Countries for Christians
- North Korea: A totalitarian regime that criminalizes any religious practice.
- Nigeria: 3,100 Christians killed in 2024 in terrorist attacks and raids.
- South Sudan: Ethnic conflicts and pressure on minorities.
- India: Hindu nationalism and anti-Christian vandalism up 62%.
- Afghanistan: Taliban threats against converts.
How Does the NGO Measure Persecution?
The analysis is based on 6 key criteria: Pressure on privacy, physical violence, legal restrictions, social discrimination, destruction of churches, and hateful propaganda. This data is collected by a network of 4,000 local employees, allowing a realistic monitoring of situations.
Explosive Situation in the Sahel and Asia
In Mali and Burkina Faso, the expansion of jihadist groups has led to the closure of 200 churches in 2024. In China, the communist regime strengthens its monitoring of “illegal” cults, arresting 127 pastors last year.
3 Ways to Act Today
- Financially support: Direct donations to rebuild churches or help families of victims.
- Share the info: Relay testimonies, like that of Samuel, a Nigerian who survived an attack by Boko Haram.
- Pray: A central practice for evangelical Christians, who organize virtual prayer channels.
A Glimmer of Hope Despite Everything
Despite the dark figures, progress is noted in Syria, where interreligious dialogue allowed the reopening of 15 churches. “Each gesture counts,” insists Marie-Claire, volunteer of Open Doors in France.
Additional Information
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Who is behind this report? NGO Open Doors, founded in 1955, intervenes in 60 countries to support oppressed Christians.
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What reliability? The data is cross-referenced with local sources (associations, lawyers, journalists).
Sources
- Official Open Doors website
- The cross
