Report Highlights Global Increase in Religious Persecution
A recent report from the U.S.Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) indicates a record number of countries are actively persecuting Christians and other faith communities. Individuals are facing imprisonment, violence, and death for practicing their beliefs.
The 2025 USCIRF Annual Report details a concerning global trend, identifying nearly 30 countries where systematic targeting of religious groups is occurring. Sixteen nations have been designated as “Countries of Particular Concern,” with another 12 placed on a “Special Watch List.” Over 2,300 people are currently imprisoned worldwide solely due to their religious beliefs.
Nigeria is highlighted as particularly dangerous, accounting for over 80% of religion-based murders in 2024. witnesses, such as Rebecca dali of the Center for Caring, Empowering and peace initiatives, have documented widespread killings perpetrated by groups like Boko Haram, impacting Christians, Muslims, and customary worshippers alike.
In China, persecution is evolving through the use of technology and a state policy of “Sinicization” of religion. This involves replacing religious symbols with images of Xi Jinping, altering religious texts to align with socialist values, and implementing surveillance technology in places of worship.Concerns were raised that this persecution extends beyond China’s borders, targeting believers even in countries they have fled to.
The report also addresses the ongoing, but challenging to quantify, violence in Syria and Iran. Open Doors estimates that 388 million Christians globally now experience high levels of persecution or discrimination – an increase of 8 million from the previous year. In some regions, like Syria, persecution is linked to a breakdown in law and order rather than direct government action.
U.S. lawmakers are calling for a reevaluation of foreign policy to address the erosion of religious freedom abroad, citing its potential threat to American security and democratic values.
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