NEW DATA: Global Persecution of Christians Surges in 2024
SANTA ANA, California, January 9, 2025 — In the West, it’s common to think of world history in terms of a narrative of progress, but instead, troubling new data indicates the global community is regressing, as violent religious persecution continues to increase around the world, with North Korea topping the list.
The annual World Watch List, releasing January 15, ranks the top 50 countries where Christians face the most extreme persecution. This year's report reveals an alarming trend: the intensity of persecution has increased significantly, with approximately 380 million Christians (one in seven) worldwide now experiencing high levels of persecution for their faith (an increase of 15 million in just one year).
Amid tightening restrictions and brutal crackdowns, North Korea continues to top Open Doors' World Watch List as the most dangerous place in the world to be a Christian, where an estimated 400,000 believers practice their faith in complete secrecy or face imprisonment, torture, or death.
"When discovered, North Korean Christians face severe punishment – including death – yet remarkably, we continue to see extraordinary courage from believers who risk everything to share their faith," said Ryan Brown, CEO at Open Doors US.
After escaping North Korea during the devastating famine of the 1990s, Joo Min found refuge in a safe house operated by Open Doors. There, she encountered Christianity for the first time – a faith she had been taught was evil. After accepting Christ, Joo Min made an astonishing decision: she chose to return to North Korea to share her faith with others.
"I know the risks," says Joo Min.* "If I am caught, I could end up in a labor camp. But I felt called to share everything I've learned with other secret believers in my homeland."
KEY FINDINGS
Key findings from the 2025 World Watch List include:
- Somalia, Yemen, Libya, and Sudan round out the top five countries where Christians face extreme persecution
- Digital Technology has led to increased restrictions and surveillance of religious activities worldwide
- A rise in violent attacks against Christians in Sub-Saharan Africa, and civil wars in places like Yemen and Myanmar have created lawlessness that has given rise to anti-Christian violence
- There is growing pressure on converts from Islam to Christianity across the Middle East and North Africa
The complete 2025 World Watch List will be released on January 15 at https://www.opendoorsus.org/en-US/persecution/countries/. Media resources, including detailed country reports, expert analysis, photos, and videos are available upon request prior to that date.
ABOUT OPEN DOORS
Open Doors works in the world's most oppressive regions, strengthening Christians to stand strong in the face of persecution and equipping them to share the gospel in their communities. Since Brother Andrew started the work of Open Doors in 1955, the ministry has mobilized prayer, support and advocacy for Christians living in places where faith in Jesus can be costly. Now working in more than 70 countries around the world, Open Doors is committed to standing with persecuted Christians through Bible distribution, training and socio-economic aid. Learn more at https://opendoorsus.org/.
*Because of the extreme risk to North Korean believers, we’ve disguised ‘Joo Min’. Her story is taken from accounts of two believers and details have been changed.
Melany Ethridge
melany@alarryross.com
214-912-8934
Open Doors’ 2025 World Watch List to be Released Jan. 15
Annual report reveals top 50 nations where it’s hardest for Christians to follow Jesus
SANTA ANA, California, Dec. 2, 2024 — The 2025 edition of the World Watch List report, the most up-to-date analysis of Christian persecution worldwide, is scheduled to be released to the media, ministry leaders and general public on January 15, 2025. Open Doors US CEO Ryan Brown and an expert on the issues facing Christians in some of the most violent regions in the world will be available for interviews with U.S. and International media.
The World Watch List is Open Doors’ annual ranking of the top 50 countries where Christians face the most persecution and/or discrimination for their faith. Since 1993, the annual report has revealed the scale and severity of the persecution of Christians, with the number of countries where Christians suffer high and extreme levels of persecution having almost doubled to more than 78 countries since the report’s inception.
“We are grateful for the interest the World Watch List has generated in the plight of persecuted Christians these last 32 years,” said Open Doors US CEO Ryan Brown. “While the numbers and rankings only partially tell the story, they do help draw the world’s attention to the 380 million believers who are suffering for their faith. This presents an opportunity for us to communicate the rest of the story – including the example that our persecuted brothers and sisters are to us and the importance of journeying alongside them in prayer.”
The World Watch List report offers an overview of persecution trends, highlighting the courageous experiences of Christians who are resiliently faithful to living out the gospel – no matter the cost. Through this report, Open Doors aims to also urge the global Church to support persecuted Christians, ultimately connecting followers of Jesus around the world through prayer, resources and encouragement.
Members of the media who wish to cover the release of the 2025 World Watch List should contact Melany Ethridge at melany@alarryross.com. To view Open Doors’ 2025 World Watch List report when it’s released on January 15, including the list of countries, a map, testimonials and more, visit https://www.opendoorsus.org/en-US/persecution/countries/.
About Open Doors US
Founded in 1955 by Brother Andrew—author of the international bestseller God’s Smuggler—Open Doors serves persecuted Christians in more than 70 countries, and is known for its annual World Watch List, the ranking of the top 50 countries where Christians face the most extreme persecution and discrimination for their faith. Open Doors US is one of 25 national Open Doors International (ODI) affiliates located around the world. Ryan Brown serves as Open Doors US president and CEO.
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Media Contact:
Melany Ethridge
melany@alarryross.com
972-267-1111
Open Doors US and World Relief Release ‘State of the Golden Door’ Report on Immigration Rates for those Fleeing Religious Persecution
Refugee Resettlement Growing but Asylum Process Fraught
SANTA ANA, Calif., October 14, 2024 — Open Doors US (ODUS) and World Relief (WR), two international ministries who as part of their calling serve people fleeing religious persecution, presented their new "State of the Golden Door” Report today, calling attention to critical gaps in the U.S. asylum system. While the number of people who have been displaced by persecution, violence, human rights violations and disruptions of public order has skyrocketed to 120 million globally for the first time in recorded history, the number of those welcomed for resettlement in the U.S. has not kept pace.
“Our hope and prayer is that this report equips and challenges fellow Christians to ensure that their witness remains strong in such a time as this,” said Ryan Brown, president and CEO of Open Doors US. “Christians around the world face persecution and many have been forced to flee their homes. We stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Christ, who desperately need our advocacy and prayers.”
The report tracks the resettlement of Christian refugees from the 50 countries where Christians face the most severe persecution and discrimination, as listed in Open Doors’ annual World Watch List. That number increased from 5,390 in fiscal year 2020 to 29,493 in fiscal year 2024, representing a 447 percent increase and the highest number of Christian refugees resettled from these 50 countries since 2016.
"We’re encouraged by the dramatic revival of the U.S. refugee resettlement program over the past few years, which has allowed the United States to offer refuge and welcome to more persecuted Christians in 2024 than in any year since 2016. Beyond refugee resettlement, as the Congress and both the current and next administration address the security and humanitarian challenges at the border, our commitment to protecting those with well-founded fears of persecution must remain non-negotiable," said Myal Greene, President and CEO of World Relief. "As a nation, we cannot turn our backs on those seeking refuge from religious oppression. The price of inaction is far too high."
The report encourages U.S. Christians to stand with those who face persecution, both in prayer and in advocacy, and includes testimonies from resettled refugees, asylees and asylum seekers from Afghanistan, Algeria, Burma, Iran, Mexico and Pakistan.
While there has been improvement in refugee resettlement rates during the Biden administration, World Relief and Open Doors US note serious concerns with new asylum regulations that restrict access to asylum for persecuted Christians and others who arrive at the U.S.-Mexico border. They urge both the Harris and Trump campaigns to commit to sustaining this relatively high level of refugee resettlement, with a particular concern for those fleeing persecution on account of their faith, alongside those fleeing persecution for other reasons.
Along with the release of the report, a press conference held today included commentary on the report and the connections between international religious freedom and U.S. refugee and asylum policies from international religious freedom experts. The following are quotes from leaders who spoke on the call:
Bishop Mark Seitz, Catholic Diocese of El Paso, Chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Migration:
“I am grateful to World Relief and Open Doors for their continued efforts to shine a light on the persecution suffered by Christians and others across the globe, including through this excellent new report. Beyond simply acknowledging such persecution for the injustice that it is, I deeply appreciate the report’s unapologetic recognition that a failure to respond adequately to the needs of those fleeing such abuse is an affront to God himself, who forms each of us in his own image.”
Knox Thames, former senior official at U.S. Department of State on religious freedom during the Obama and Trump Administrations, and author of Ending Persecution: Charting the Path to Global Religious Freedom:
“America's tradition of resettling those fleeing religious persecution reflects US interests and values. For instance, the US has a long history of providing refuge to those escaping religious persecution, from the first settlers fleeing persecution in Europe to Soviet Jews in the 20th century to Iranian Christians in the 21st century. Providing a haven for persecuted Christians and others suffering for their beliefs rescues people from harm while providing time to press for human rights reforms that can take years. As the report makes clear, a robust US refugee resettlement program saves lives.”
Nadine Maenza, President, International Religious Freedom Secretariat:
“When the U.S. drops their [refugee admission] numbers, countries around the world all drop their numbers… So when we close our doors, guess what happens? Other countries close their doors, and it becomes an even larger problem in the world… More countries in the world should open their doors, and we have this opportunity to be a leader in providing refuge for those fleeing persecution.”
Through the State of the Golden Door Report and briefing, the organizations encourage policymakers, presidential candidates and everyday Christians to pray for persecuted individuals worldwide and to advocate for policies that prioritize religious freedom, sustain refugee resettlement, and ensure fair asylum processes.
The full report is available at www.worldrelief.org/goldendoor. Members of the media may view a recording of today’s press briefing here.
About Open Doors US
For more than 60 years, Open Doors US has worked in the world’s most oppressive and restrictive countries for Christians. Open Doors US works to equip and encourage Christians living in dangerous circumstances with the threat of persecution and equips the Western church to advocate for the persecuted. Christians are one of the most persecuted religious groups in the world and are oppressed in at least 60 countries. For more information, visit OpendoorsUS.org.
About World Relief
World Relief is a global Christian humanitarian organization whose mission is to boldly engage the world’s greatest crises in partnership with the church. The organization was founded in the aftermath of World War II to respond to the urgent humanitarian needs of war-torn Europe. Since then, for 80 years, across 100 countries, World Relief has partnered with local churches and communities to develop sustainable, locally-driven solutions to some of the world’s greatest problems. To learn more, visit worldrelief.org.
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Media Contact:
Melany Ethridge
melany@alarryross.com
214-912-8934
Open Doors US and World Relief Highlight Need for Biden-Harris Immigration Policies to Protect those Fleeing Religious Persecution
Recent Executive Actions Reduce Border Crossings but Risk Excluding those Seeking Religious Freedom
BALTIMORE, MD, October 8, 2024 — Open Doors US (ODUS) and World Relief (WR), two international ministries serving people fleeing religious persecution, are calling attention to critical gaps in the U.S. asylum system in their new "State of the Golden Door” Report. Releasing on October 14, 2024, the Report examines current immigration policies under the Biden-Harris administration and highlights the impact on persecuted Christians and other religious minorities seeking asylum or refugee status in the United States. A media event will be held via Zoom on October 14 at 1:00 PM EDT featuring expert analysis and key findings.
While recent U.S. efforts have resettled an increasing number of religious refugees, ODUS and WR emphasize that there is still significant room for improvement. In particular, the two organizations express concern over a June 2024 executive action, expanded upon on September 30, that presumes most individuals crossing the U.S.-Mexico border unlawfully are ineligible for asylum, with very limited exceptions. This policy has helped to reduce the historic surge in illegal border crossings, but it also risks excluding Christian refugees and others fleeing religious persecution.
"At a time when Christians and other religious minorities are facing severe persecution, the U.S. must ensure that it remains a safe haven for those with legitimate asylum claims," said Ryan Brown, president and CEO of Open Doors US. "We understand and support the need for securing our borders, but we cannot sacrifice due process for those whose lives are in danger simply because they seek to live out their faith. Nor can we forget to faithfully pray and advocate for our brothers and sisters living in harm’s way."
WR and ODUS chose ‘State of the Golden Door’ as the new title for their annual analysis of the impact of U.S. immigration policy on those fleeing religious persecution. The name references the Emma Lazarus sonnet “The New Colossus” depicted at the Statue of Liberty, which characterizes the United States as a land of opportunity and refuge. The new title better reflects a shift towards balancing border security with the protection and accommodation of those fleeing religious persecution.
The 2024 report sheds light on the dire circumstances facing asylum seekers, including those persecuted for their Christian faith who are stranded in Mexico. Many are stuck in shelters, often run by resource-limited local churches, waiting months for an opportunity to seek asylum through the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's CBP One app. These refugees, fleeing persecution for their faith, face high rates of violence, extortion and kidnapping, especially women and children.
"Congress must address both the security and humanitarian challenges at the border, but our commitment to protecting those with well-founded fears of persecution must remain non-negotiable," said Myal Greene, president and CEO of World Relief. "As a nation, we cannot turn our backs on those seeking refuge from religious oppression. The price of inaction is far too high."
The report, co-authored by Open Doors US and World Relief, urges the Biden-Harris administration, Congress and the next presidential administration to strengthen protections for religious refugees while maintaining the integrity of U.S. borders. By providing faster, fairer access to asylum for those with legitimate claims, the U.S. can remain a source of hope for those escaping religious persecution.
Media Event Details
The full "State of the Golden Door" report will be released via a Zoom media event on October 14, 2024, at 1:00 PM EDT. Members of the media are encouraged to attend for a detailed presentation of the report’s findings and insights from leaders at Open Doors US and World Relief.
Media interested in attending the event should register in advance here.
About Open Doors US
For more than 60 years, Open Doors US has worked in the world’s most oppressive and restrictive countries for Christians. Open Doors US works to equip and encourage Christians living in dangerous circumstances with the threat of persecution and equips the Western church to advocate for the persecuted. Christians are one of the most persecuted religious groups in the world and are oppressed in at least 60 countries. For more information, visit OpendoorsUS.org.
About World Relief
World Relief is a global Christian humanitarian organization whose mission is to boldly engage the world’s greatest crises in partnership with the church. The organization was founded in the aftermath of World War II to respond to the urgent humanitarian needs of war-torn Europe. Since then, for 80 years, across 100 countries, World Relief has partnered with local churches and communities to develop sustainable, locally-driven solutions to some of the world’s greatest problems. To learn more, visit worldrelief.org
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Media Contact:
Melany Ethridge
melany@alarryross.com
214-912-8934
Open Doors Seeks to Collect One Million Prayers and Petitions in Support of Persecuted Christians in Sub-Saharan Africa
New Arise Africa Initiative Focuses on 16.2 Million Christians Displaced for their Faith in Nigeria and Surrounding Region
SANTA ANA, Calif., Oct. 7, 2024 — As part of its new Arise Africa campaign to bring attention to the extreme persecution experienced by Christians in sub-Saharan Africa, Open Doors seeks to gather one million prayers and petitions in support of these beloved family members. People from around the world are invited to sign a virtual petition and commit to pray for believers in this region, the most violent place in the world for Christians, as reported in Open Doors’ annual World Watch List of the 50 nations most hostile to the Christian faith.
“Christians across sub-Saharan Africa are facing violent persecution for their faith in Jesus. With thousands killed in the last year and millions more displaced, the hope of the African church seems grim,” said Ryan Brown, Open Doors US CEO. “And yet, through our faith in Jesus, we believe there is always hope for God's people. We want to express our support for the church in sub-Saharan Africa by raising one million prayers and petitions to aid these precious family members in living out their resilient faith.”
In addition to uniting the global family of believers in prayer for their brothers and sisters facing extreme persecution, the petition portion of this initiative seeks to drive attention and facilitate change. Campaign organizers believe a collective “knock” from a million (or more) individuals can open doors and encourage those in positions of influence to address the issues.
The African church has challenged Western believers to join them in reaching 1 million prayers and signatures. Through this joint action, Christians around the world unite with their African family members to call upon the global community to ensure that Christians and other vulnerable individuals in sub-Saharan Africa are treated with dignity and respect by:
1. Protection: Providing robust protection from violent militant attacks
2. Justice: Ensuring justice through fair prosecutions of the attackers
3. Restoration: Bring healing and restoration to all affected communities
Another part of the Arise Africa project, Open Doors’ new “No Road Home” report shows how Christians are victims of violent displacement—many times because of their faith—and then deal with additional discrimination and mistreatment as they flee the violence. The situation is grim and requires a massive response from the global community; step one is the “No Road Home” report to raise awareness, and step two is the invitation to prayer and advocacy.
“When you pray with your family in sub-Saharan Africa, you are helping to strengthen their resilient faith and remind them they aren’t alone or forgotten,” Brown added. “This is why we invite everyone to join us as we raise 1 million prayers and petitions for Christians across the African continent.”
About Open Doors US
Open Doors US is part of Open Doors International, a global membership organisation with 25 national bases that has supported and strengthened persecuted Christians for more than 60 years and works in 70 countries. Open Doors provides practical support to persecuted Christians such as food, medicines, trauma care, legal assistance, safe houses and schools, as well as spiritual support through Christian literature, training and resources. Ryan Brown serves as Open Doors US CEO.
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Media Contact:
Melany Ethridge
melany@alarryross.com
214-912-8934
16.2 Million Christians are Displaced in Sub-Saharan Africa, Says New Open Doors Report
New research shows Christians face violent attack, forced displacement and discrimination in relief aid
SANTA ANA, Calif., Sept. 16, 2024 — There is a humanitarian crisis across sub-Saharan Africa that nobody is talking about. Over 32 million people, half of whom are Christians, have been forced to leave their homes and are living in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps.
A new report from global religious persecution watchdog Open Doors shines a light on this catastrophe. Using data gathered from two states in Nigeria, the “No Road Home” report shows how Christians are victims of violent displacement—many times because of their faith—and then deal with additional discrimination and mistreatment as they flee the violence.
“No Road Home” is part of a multi-year effort by Open Doors called “Arise Africa,” which seeks to highlight and address the ongoing violence suffered by Christians in sub-Saharan Africa. The situation is grim and requires a massive response from the global community; the “No Road Home” report is the first step in this process.
The “No Road Home” report combines exhaustive literature and incident research with on-the-ground interviews conducted in 2024. Among the findings:
· From October 2019 to September 2023, 2.7 times as many Christians were killed as Muslims in violent attacks in Nigeria.
· Protracted violence by militant Islamist groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP—both of whom purposely target Christians—was overwhelmingly cited by interviewees as the primary driver of displacement in Borno state.
· Inadequate and poorly distributed resources, faith-based discrimination and insufficient understanding of specific displacement experiences increased the vulnerabilities of Christians during displacement.
This massive crisis is only part of the ongoing violence and instability facing Christians in sub-Saharan Africa. Research for Open Doors’ annual World Watch List—the yearly list of the 50 places around the world most hostile to the Christian faith—has found that sub-Saharan Africa is the most violent place in the world for Christians. Across the 26 sub-Saharan countries with at least “High” overall levels of persecution on Open Doors‘ 2024 World Watch List, more than 4,600 Christians were killed because of their faith during the 12-month reporting period. And, as in the previous year, Nigeria (which ranks No. 6 on the 2024 Open Doors World Watch List) accounted for more than 8 of every 10 of those religiously motivated killings in World Watch List countries. Nigerian Christians faced ongoing brutalities, destruction of property, abduction, sexual violence and death, being driven from their homes and stripped of their livelihoods altogether.
“Millions of Christians are displaced here in Nigeria... [as well as] in the whole of Africa,” shares Pastor Barnabas*, one of thousands of Nigerian Christians currently living in IDP camps due to the militant attacks forcing them from their homes and farmland. “We are remaining in the darkness.”
Pastor Barnabas lives in overcrowded camps filled with 1.5-meter-long tents made of used cardboard and plastics. He and his family have lived in the camp for the past five years. He shares that those in the camp struggle each day to find work or food to provide for their families.
“Sub-Saharan Africa remains the most violent place in the world for Christians,” said Open Doors US CEO Ryan Brown. “Faith-related deaths in Sub-Saharan Africa have far outstripped those of any other region in the annual World Watch List report for the last half-decade.”
The ”No Road Home” report makes this reality clear. The full report and its key findings are available here.
Driven by the research, the new report also includes policy recommendations, giving practical steps to international stakeholders to speak up for Christians in sub-Saharan Africa and to seek real progress toward ending the violence that is driving mass displacement. Additionally, the report makes suggestions for media and other public-facing spokespersons to highlight the woefully underreported crisis and to create mass awareness around the situation.
And finally, the report suggests that the Christian community can speak out for and with African followers of Christ. Despite the difficulties faced by millions, the African church remains resilient and asks Christians in the West to support them through prayer and advocacy.
“[Christian IDPs’] minds have been discouraged,” Pastor Barnabas continues. “And as a pastor in the camp, [who is also] displaced, I don’t have anything to give them. We only pray together and share the Word of God together. Our eyes are on [God]...our hope is [in] Him. We put our confidence [in] Him. We believe He is great. He will do it, more than we have expected.”
About Open Doors US
Open Doors US is part of Open Doors International, a global membership organisation with 25 national bases that has supported and strengthened persecuted Christians for more than 60 years and works in 70 countries. Open Doors provides practical support to persecuted Christians such as food, medicines, trauma care, legal assistance, safe houses and schools, as well as spiritual support through Christian literature, training and resources. Ryan Brown serves as Open Doors US CEO.
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Media Contact:
Melany Ethridge
melany@alarryross.com
972-267-1111
Open Doors Statement on ISIS Murder of Christians in the DRC
Over 60 Christians Killed in Recent Attacks, Ministry Responds, Calling on International Community Support
SANTA ANA, California, June 11, 2024 – Following the recent ISIS attack in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where more than 60 Christians were murdered in the Masala area of Beni, the terrorist group formally announced the following, claiming responsibility via Telegram post for the massacre: “Central African state: More than 60 Christians were killed, including a Congolese army officer, in an attack by Caliphate soldiers in eastern Congo.”
In light of this devastating attack, an Open Doors field representative in the DRC has issued the following statement, highlighting the national reality for Christians and exhorting international community support:
"The rate at which Christian communities continue to be attacked in eastern DRC by the ADF is horrifying. These attacks continue unabated, displacing thousands of people from their homes, farmlands and livelihoods. We call on the international community to do everything in its power to ensure the Government of DRC faithfully and transparently protects all affected communities and that the displaced receive the support they need in these circumstances.”
- Jo Newhouse, OD Field spokesperson for the work in Sub-Saharan Africa
Open Doors’ World Watch List ranks the DRC as #41 among the nations where Christians face the most extreme persecution around the globe. Although Christians make up 95% of the national population, there are regions in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo that remain a key target of radical attackers. The primary threats to Christians there are oppression from Islamic groups, organized corruption and crime, dictatorial paranoia and clan abuse from a portion of more than 100 local armed groups, some of whom specifically target followers of Jesus. This leaves Christians and churches in this part of the country vulnerable to attacks, including through the following forms of persecution:
· Murder
· Abduction
· Sexual violence
· Targeted attacks on those who speak out against the violence
· Displacement due to violence
In response, Open Doors continues working through local partners to support Christians in the DRC through persecution survival training, economic empowerment projects and trauma care, magnifying local ministry efforts amid this tragedy. For more information on Christian persecution in the DRC and Open Doors’ mission in this nation, visit: https://www.opendoorsus.org/en-US/persecution/countries/drc/.
About Open Doors US
Open Doors US is one of 25 national Open Doors International (ODI) bases located around the world. Founded in 1955, Open Doors has continued to serve persecuted Christians in more than 70 countries, and is known for its annual World Watch List, the ranking of the top 50 countries where Christians face the most extreme persecution. Ryan Brown serves as Open Doors US president and CEO.
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Media Contact:
Melany Ethridge
214-912-8934
New Report from Open Doors Highlights Top 5 Forms of Persecution Faced by Women
International Women’s Day Release: Gender-Specific
Religious Persecution and Insecurity
SANTA ANA, California, March 5, 2024 — In recognition of International Women’s Day, Open Doors releases this week its annual Gender Report—an analysis of gender-specific religious persecution (GSRP) featuring country rankings of the places where a woman’s faith and gender make her most vulnerable to persecution and discrimination.
Compiled by Open Doors’ global research team, the 2024 Gender Report gives insight into the different types and degrees of persecution that Christian women face around the world, highlighting marginalization, oppression and violence for both their gender and identity in Christ.
While the annual World Watch List (WWL) reveals the top 50 most dangerous countries for all Christians, the GSRP country rankings show where Christians are most vulnerable to persecution and discrimination based on their gender. An example in this year’s report is that faith-based forced marriage was identified as a risk for Christian women and girls in a staggering 84% of the 50 countries on Open Doors’ 2024 World Watch List.
“Today, more than 365 million people face real persecution and discrimination— unimaginable horrors every day—for following Jesus,” shares Open Doors US CEO Ryan Brown. “And so many of these faithful followers are courageous women—wives, mothers, sisters and daughters—choosing this difficult path, choosing to stay true to the gospel, despite increased oppression and brutalities.”
Globally, Christian women and girls often find themselves caught in complex webs of compounding vulnerabilities—not only at higher risk as Christians living in WWL countries, but also at increased risk of persecution and discrimination because they are women living in contexts of violent insecurity. The decision to follow Jesus adds yet another layer of vulnerability.
The Gender Report notes that where Christian persecution is already prevalent, situations with high levels of violence can create further opportunities for targeting Christian women. While no setting is ever completely secure and safe, this year’s report reveals that 21 of the countries on the WWL suffer from situations of violent insecurity—and includes an in-depth dive into the Top 5 pressure points for female Christians across WWL countries:
1. Forced marriage
2. Sexual violence
3. Physical violence
4. Psychological violence
5. Abduction
“As these courageous women face increased persecution, we are witnessing their undying faith in Jesus all the more,” says Open Doors US COO Sarah Cunningham. “Although widely without a voice and basic human rights, they serve an incomparable purpose in the Kingdom of God—shining a light for Christ in their families and communities and showing us all what real faith looks like.”
Editor’s Note: Members of the media who wish to cover the release of Open Doors’ 2024 Gender Report should contact Melany Ethridge at melany@alarryross.com. More information and Open Doors’ 2024 GSRP Gender Report is available online at this link: https://www.opendoorsus.org/en-US/getinvolved/resources/2024-gender-report.
About Open Doors US
Founded in 1955 by Brother Andrew—author of the international bestseller God’s Smuggler—Open Doors serves persecuted Christians in more than 70 countries, and is known for its annual World Watch List report, ranking the top 50 countries where Christians face the most extreme persecution and discrimination for their faith. Open Doors US is one of 25 global bases for Open Doors International (ODI). Ryan Brown serves as Open Doors US president and CEO.
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Media Contact:
Melany Ethridge
melany@alarryross.com
972-267-1111
Open Doors’ Annual World Watch List Scheduled for January 17, 2024 Release
Updated report reveals top 50 countries where Christians face most extreme persecution for their faith
SANTA ANA, California, Dec. 5, 2023 — The 2024 edition of the World Watch List report, the most up-to-date analysis of Christian persecution worldwide, is scheduled to be released to the media, ministry leaders and general public on January 17, 2024. Open Doors US CEO Ryan Brown and an expert on the issues facing Christians in some of the most violent regions in the world will be available for interviews with U.S. and International media.
The World Watch List is Open Doors’ annual ranking of the top 50 countries where Christians face the most persecution and/or discrimination for their faith. Since 1993, the annual report has revealed the scale and severity of the persecution of Christians, with the number of countries where Christians suffer high and extreme levels of persecution having almost doubled to more than countries since the report’s inception.
“It's only getting worse for Christians around the world experiencing these horrors,” shares CEO Ryan Brown. “And today, that number totals more than 350 million – 350 million people facing real persecution and discrimination, all because they follow Jesus.”
The World Watch List report offers an overview of persecution trends, highlighting the courageous experiences of Christians who are resiliently faithful to living out the gospel – no matter the cost. Through this report, Open Doors aims to also urge the global Church to support persecuted Christians, ultimately connecting followers of Jesus around the world through prayer, resources and encouragement.
“Our hope is that this annual report will represent these courageous and faithful people well, offering insight into the worldwide persecuted church, encouraging others to pray for these individuals, and inspiring a renewed faith within the church at-large,” Brown added.
Members of the media who wish to cover the release of the 2024 World Watch List should contact Melany Ethridge at melany@alarryross.com. To view Open Doors’ 2024 World Watch List report when it’s released on January 17, including the list of countries, a map, testimonials and more, visit https://www.opendoorsus.org/en-US/persecution/countries/.
About Open Doors US
Founded in 1955 by Brother Andrew—author of the international bestseller God’s Smuggler—Open Doors serves persecuted Christians in more than 70 countries, and is known for its annual World Watch List, the ranking of the top 50 countries where Christians face the most extreme persecution and discrimination for their faith. Open Doors US is one of 25 national Open Doors International (ODI) affiliates located around the world. Ryan Brown serves as Open Doors US president and CEO.
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Media Contact:
Melany Ethridge
melany@alarryross.com
972-267-1111
New Kid-Friendly Christmas Resource from Open Doors Helps Children Understand Persecution
‘Herod’s Secret Policeman’ follows the story of Jesus’ escape to Egypt, shares challenges many Christians experience today
SANTA ANA, Calif., Dec. 7, 2023 — Open Doors has just released a new tool for families and churches that helps children understand religious persecution in an age-appropriate way. The children’s story book and animated video “Herod’s Secret Policeman” tells the fictional tale of Secret Policeman Number 3 (and his toy sheep Nellie), of the people he met on the journey, and the way in which the encounter with Jesus, Mary, and Joseph changed him forever.
“It’s an imaginative take on this familiar story so central to our faith. But more than that, Herod’s Secret Policeman will introduce children – in a very gentle way – to the pressures faced by believers around the world, many of whom live under surveillance, or are at risk because of their faith,” said Open Doors US CEO Ryan Brown. “It helps children understand that some Christians today might even have to flee for their lives, just as Mary, Joseph, and Jesus did.”
Brown explained that the holy family’s flight to Egypt is a part of the Christmas story that is often overlooked here in the U.S. but is one that resonates with those who follow Jesus in difficult places.
“This season provides a great opportunity for us to highlight this important episode for western believers,” he added. “We need the reminder that even Jesus faced persecution, and the story is also a great encouragement to our persecuted brothers and sisters, to know that our Savior shared in and understands their own experiences.”
The book and video are available for download at opendoorsus.ubpages.com/herods-place/. More information about what believers endure around the world and how U.S. Christians can pray for them can be found at www.opendoorsus.org.
About Open Doors US
Founded in 1955 by Brother Andrew—author of the international bestseller God’s Smuggler—Open Doors serves persecuted Christians in more than 70 countries, and is known for its annual World Watch List, the ranking of the top 50 countries where Christians face the most extreme persecution and discrimination for their faith. Open Doors US is one of 25 national Open Doors International (ODI) affiliates located around the world. Ryan Brown serves as Open Doors US president and CEO.
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Media Contact:
Melany Ethridge
melany@alarryross.com
972-267-1111
Open Doors US Launches New Era with Appointment of CEO Ryan Brown
Brown: ‘We need the perspective of persecuted Christians who are walking out their faith as they engage culture.’
ORANGE, Calif., Sept. 5, 2023 — As Open Doors US continues to strengthen persecuted Christians around the world — including Syrian believers where earthquake recovery is ongoing — the ministry is excited to announce new leadership. Ryan Brown has been appointed as Open Doors US CEO. In this new role, Brown hopes to help U.S. believers grow their faith as they connect with their persecuted family around the globe.
“I have stepped into this position with the ever-growing conviction that the Persecuted Church has so much to offer us as the Church in the West," Brown said. "We live in a culture that would seek to compartmentalize our faith into ever-shrinking parts of our lives.
“We need the perspective of persecuted Christians who are walking out their faith as they engage culture," Brown continued. “The way we can learn from and help each other is a testament to the beauty of how Christ designed the Church.”
Brown will be in Washington, D.C., next month as Open Doors US partners with World Relief to announce the results of the organizations’ joint study on the impact of persecution on U.S. immigration policy. Open Doors International’s annual World Watch List is a key contribution to the study.
“Around the world, there is great respect for Open Doors' 68 years of work, history and relationships," Brown said. "We have the largest on-the-ground network serving persecuted Christians, starting in 1955 when Open Doors Founder Brother Andrew began his ministry to believers facing persecution in Warsaw, Poland. As we approach the one-year anniversary of Andrew's passing on September 27, I am humbled to be the U.S. leader selected to carry his mantle into the next season of ministry serving the persecuted church.”
The Open Doors US Board of Directors shares its confidence in Brown’s leadership for this next era of ministry: “The Board of Open Doors US is delighted to appoint Ryan Brown as our CEO,” said Open Doors US Board Chair Alan McDowell. “We see in Ryan a true and humble heart, seeking to share the message of how we are serving the persecuted church around the globe, carrying on the legacy of Brother Andrew who started this ministry nearly 70 years ago. Revelation 3 tells us to wake up and strengthen what remains – Open Doors continues that mandate as we seek to strengthen our persecuted brothers and sisters who suffer as disciples of Jesus Christ. We know this is Ryan's passion, too.”
About Open Doors
Open Doors International (ODI) originated in 1955, when a young Dutchman started smuggling Bibles to the persecuted Christians in Communist Europe. He became known as Brother Andrew, and in the six decades since his first journey, Open Doors has continued to seek out and strengthen those who suffer violent persecution and discrimination for their Christian faith. With the aid of the international community, Open Doors is serving persecuted Christians in more than 70 countries, working with churches and local partners to provide prayer, Bibles, Christian materials, training, livelihood skills and advocacy. ODI is known for its annual World Watch List, the ranking of the top 50 countries where Christians face the most extreme persecution. Open Doors US is one of 25 national ODI bases located around the world.
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Media Contact:
Melany Ethridge
melany@alarryross.com
972-267-1111