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Christians executed in churches and worshippers forced to convert to Islam, new report reveals
A new report describes harassment, violence and restrictions affecting Christians across many countries, including attacks on worshippers, forced conversions and limits on religious practice. It matters because the findings point to widespread risks for Christian communities, with women and children particularly exposed to abduction and exploitation.
Pew Research Centre found that Christians faced abuse in 165 countries, while Aid to the Church in Need estimates around 220 million Christians are exposed to persecution. The article highlights countries in Africa, including Burkina Faso, Niger and Nigeria, as well as Pakistan, China and North Korea; it cites figures suggesting about 2,000 kidnappings of Christians in Pakistan each year and reports that possessing a Bible is a criminal offence in North Korea.
In short
- Christians face harassment and persecution across 165 countries.
- Aid to the Church in Need estimates 220 million are exposed.
- Women and children are especially vulnerable to abduction and forced conversion.
Explained simply
Christians are a religious community found around the world, and the ways they practise their faith vary between countries. In places where governments or armed groups restrict religion, people may face limits on worship, religious texts or public gatherings.
Pew Research Centre monitors restrictions on religion, while Aid to the Church in Need is a Catholic charity that reports on religious freedom. Their figures use different methods and cover a range of experiences, from legal restrictions to violence and abduction; women and children can face particular risks.