Persecuted Christians: Africa and Asia concentrate the increase in religious violence in 2026

Persecution against Christians continues to intensify in various regions of the world, especially in sub-Saharan Africa and Asia, where millions of believers face violence, discrimination and restrictions because of their faith. The 2026 edition of the World Persecution List reveals that more than 388 million Christians suffer high levels of persecution or discrimination, a figure that marks a new record.

One of the most significant data in the report is the increase in countries classified as having extreme persecution, which went from 13 to 15. North Korea maintains first place as the most dangerous country to profess Christianity, followed by Somalia, Yemen and Sudan. In these nations, gathering to pray, possess a Bible, or share faith can lead to arrest, assault, or even death.

The report also warns about the deterioration of the situation in several African countries. In Nigeria, for example, attacks by armed groups against Christian communities continue to cause forced displacement and numerous civilian victims. Meanwhile, in regions of Asia such as India and Pakistan, social pressures, accusations of blasphemy and episodes of violence against Christian churches and families persist.

Organizations dedicated to the defense of religious freedom warn that persecution is no longer limited to violent acts. In many places it takes more silent forms, such as state surveillance, employment discrimination, educational exclusion or the prohibition of building temples, measures that progressively restrict the exercise of faith.

Against this backdrop, various international entities have reiterated the call to strengthen the protection of religious freedom and fundamental human rights, emphasizing that the defense of this right benefits all people, regardless of their beliefs.