The persecution of Christians reaches record levels in 2026, with 388 million affected

Persecution of Christians worldwide reached its highest level since modern records began in 2026. According to the 2026 World Watch List compiled by the organization Open Doors, 388 million Christians suffer “high,” “very high,” or “extreme” levels of persecution and discrimination because of their faith—eight million more than the previous year.

The report documents 4,849 Christians killed for reasons related to their faith during the last period analyzed, an increase compared to the previous year. Nigeria remains the epicenter of the violence, with 3,490 deaths, around 70% of the global total. In addition, 3,302 kidnappings and 4,712 arrests or imprisonments of believers were recorded, while 3,632 churches or Christian properties were attacked or closed.

The report also warns of a significant deterioration in the Middle East. Syria has climbed the ranks to become one of the countries with “extreme” persecution, following an increase in violence amid the political instability that followed the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in 2024. In June 2025, an attack on the Mar Elias Church in Damascus left 22 dead and more than 60 wounded.

In sub-Saharan Africa, Open Doors describes the region as a “death trap” for Christians, due to fragile governments and the expansion of extremist groups. North Korea remains the most dangerous country for practicing Christianity, a position it has held for 24 years.

Religious freedom organizations emphasize that these figures reflect not only murders, but also forced displacement, sexual violence, and systematic discrimination. The report urges the international community to strengthen the protection of religious minorities and to raise awareness of a reality that, according to its authors, continues to worsen year after year.