Global Christian persecution affects 388 million

The Open Doors World Watch List 2026 reveals a record high of violence against Christians globally, with 388 million facing persecution. Cristian Nani, director of Open Doors, highlighted the disproportionate impact on women and minors, expressing particular concern for sub-Saharan Africa.

The report indicates an increase of 8 million people experiencing persecution compared to the previous year. The World Watch List identifies 15 countries as experiencing “extreme” levels of anti-Christian persecution.

Persecution Levels and Affected Countries

The number of countries with extreme persecution has risen from 13 to 15. North Korea remains the most dangerous country for Christians. Other countries with alarming levels of persecution include Somalia, Eritrea, Libya, Afghanistan, Yemen, Sudan, Mali, Nigeria, Pakistan, Iran, India, Saudi Arabia, Myanmar, and Syria. Syria has been reclassified from a “high” to an “extreme” level of persecution. The report notes that the Christian population in Syria has decreased significantly, with only approximately 300,000 remaining.

Violence and Killings

The number of killings of Christians has increased to 4,849, averaging 13 per day. Nigeria is identified as the epicenter of this violence, accounting for approximately 70 percent of the global total with 3,490 victims. While the number of Christians arrested for their faith remains relatively stable (4,712), kidnappings have decreased (3,302). Attacks on churches and businesses have also declined, but instances of abuse, rape, and forced marriages have risen to 5,202.

Focus on Sub-Saharan Africa

Open Doors has designated sub-Saharan Africa as a “special observation” area due to fragile governments and increased exposure to violence. Approximately one-eighth of the world’s Christian population resides in Africa, where Christianity’s center of gravity has shifted, but it is also facing significant attacks. Sudan, along with Nigeria, Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Mozambique, are identified as particularly critical countries. Economic factors combined with religious dimensions contribute to attacks against Christians in these unstable regions.

Recent Attacks in Nigeria

The World Watch List 2026 was presented in Rome, accompanied by a testimony from a witness in Nigeria. Recent reports from Open Doors indicate heightened concerns among Christians in Nigeria regarding potential reprisals from terrorist groups following a US Christmas raid. Recent attacks include 14 victims by the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Adamawa State on December 29, and an attack on a marketplace in Dema, Niger State, on January 4, resulting in dozens of victims.