A recent report from Open Doors International reveals that more than 380 million Christians faced persecution and discrimination in 2024, marking an increase of 15 million compared to the previous year. Published on January 15, The World Watch List 2025 ranks the top 50 nations where Christians endured the most persecution between October 1, 2023, and September 30, 2024.
The report highlights that Christians worldwide often face systemic denial of basic legal rights in societies antagonistic to their faith. “Far from receiving equal protection as citizens, Christians are frequently denied fundamental legal safeguards,” the document states.
Widespread Persecution
Founded in 1955, Open Doors International operates in 27 countries, advocating for and providing support to persecuted Christians. The organization aims “to inspire and mobilize individuals in every nation to pray, support, and speak out for Christians who suffer for their faith,” according to its mission statement.
In 2024, the report estimates that 4,476 Christians were killed for their faith, with Nigeria accounting for 3,100 deaths. Though this represents a slight decline from previous years, Nigeria remains one of the most perilous countries for Christians, ranking seventh on the list.
In addition to killings, 4,744 Christians were reportedly detained, arrested, or imprisoned without trial. India alone accounted for 1,629 detentions and 547 convictions, with similar incidents reported in Eritrea, Bangladesh, and Iran.
Top Offenders and Emerging Trends
North Korea continues to occupy the top spot on the list, a position it has held almost consistently since 2002. The report attributes this to heightened violence and a growing emphasis on ideological purity, leading to ruthless purges of perceived threats.
Central Asia has also seen a notable surge in Christian persecution. Kyrgyzstan climbed from 61st in 2024 to 47th in 2025, the sharpest increase among the listed countries.”
Peter Paulson, secretary general of Open Doors International’s Swedish office, linked the global rise in Christian persecution to a steady decline in democracy since 2005. “As democratic freedoms erode, challenges intensify, especially in regions where Christians are minorities,” he explained in a phone interview.
Concerns Beyond the Top 50
The Philippines, despite its significant Christian population, ranked among the top 78 countries for persecution. Algeria, now 19th on the list, has seen a spike in trials and convictions of Christians. The report notes systematic closures of Protestant churches and targeted suppression of online Christian activities in the North African nation.
Source : The Pilot