Open Doors reports 388 million Christians face global persecution

At a conference in Ljubljana hosted by European MEP Matej Tonin, the organization Open Doors reported that more than 388 million Christians worldwide face persecution and discrimination due to their faith. According to Miika Auvinen of Open Doors, approximately one in seven Christians globally experiences such marginalization.

Reports indicate that persecution varies by region, ranging from restrictions on official religious registration to threats of imprisonment or death. Statistical data from the organization noted that 5,000 Christians were killed last year. The situation is particularly severe in Africa, where an average of 12 Christians die daily, including nine in Nigeria.

During the event, witnesses from Iran and Eritrea shared testimonies regarding their experiences. Matej Tonin suggested that the European Union could use economic pressure, such as leveraging existing trade agreements, to combat discrimination and violence against religious groups in certain countries.