Date: December 31, 2024
Ecclesia United International is deeply troubled by reports of systematic rejection of asylum applications from Iranian Christians by Georgian immigration authorities. Despite well-documented fears of persecution upon return to Iran, many Iranian Christian asylum seekers are left in a state of despair and uncertainty, with few options for international protection.
A recent report by Article18, in collaboration with Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW), Open Doors, and Middle East Concern, highlights the plight of these individuals. The findings reveal that many Iranian Christians, including well-known pastors and community leaders, face rejection on questionable grounds, including claims that their faith is not genuine. This pattern persists even in cases where the authenticity of their conversion to Christianity is undisputed.
Grim Realities for Asylum Seekers
In 2023, Iranian nationals constituted 20 percent of all asylum seekers in Georgia, with 90 percent fleeing persecution after converting to Christianity. Alarmingly, Georgia has approved less than 1 percent of the nearly 1,200 asylum applications filed by Iranians over the past three years. This rejection rate, coupled with Georgia’s growing ties with Iran and apparent intolerance toward non-Georgian Orthodox Christian expressions, has left many asylum seekers in a precarious position.
In light of these distressing circumstances, Ecclesia United International urges:
- The Georgian Government to:
o Ensure a thorough refugee determination process that reflects the diversity of Christian beliefs.
o Refer to credible reports, including those by the UN Special Rapporteur on Iran, when assessing the risks faced by Iranian Christians upon return. - The International Community to:
o Press Georgia to uphold its obligations to protect religious minorities.
o Establish new safe and legal pathways for the resettlement of persecuted Iranian Christians.
o Enhance regional protection mechanisms to ensure the safety and well-being of Iranian Christians in the Middle East and the Caucasus.
A Call for Justice and Compassion
Religious freedom is a cornerstone of human rights, and the international community must act decisively to protect those who face persecution for their faith. Iranian Christians who have bravely embraced their beliefs deserve refuge and dignity, not rejection and despair. Ecclesia United International calls on governments, international organizations, and advocates worldwide to stand in solidarity with these vulnerable individuals and demand justice and compassion.
About Ecclesia United International
Ecclesia United International is a global advocacy organization dedicated to defending the rights of persecuted Christians worldwide. Through advocacy, relief efforts, and community support, we strive to uphold the dignity and safety of individuals facing religious persecution.