Christian advocacy group Open Doors reports that persecution and discrimination against Christians worldwide intensified in 2025, affecting more than 388 million believers—an increase of eight million from the previous year—with 4,849 faith-related killings, predominantly in Nigeria.
Annual World Watch List Findings
The organization’s World Watch List evaluates 50 countries based on factors including violence, restrictions on private and public worship, family pressures, and community discrimination. Countries facing the highest levels include North Korea, Somalia, Yemen, Sudan, Eritrea, Syria, Nigeria, Pakistan, Libya, and Iran. Syria’s situation deteriorated sharply, elevating its ranking significantly.
Methodology and Data Collection
Data stems from grassroots reports, detailed questionnaires, and independent analyses covering religious freedom across personal, familial, communal, and national domains. The report highlights a surge in extreme persecution zones, underscoring the growing challenges for Christian communities globally.
Regional Hotspots and Trends
Nigeria accounts for the majority of Christian deaths linked to faith, amid ongoing violence. The list notes broader patterns of increased hostility in the Middle East and Africa, with longstanding oppressors like North Korea maintaining top positions due to total bans on Christian practice.