Report: World's number of countries persecuting Christians has risen
A study highlights the persecution faced by Christians worldwide and suggests the need for stronger protection for religious freedom.
According to a new study by the Pew Research Center, the number of countries where Christians are persecuted has increased worldwide.
According to the report, in 2021, Christians faced persecution in 160 countries (up from 155 the previous year).
An extensive analysis of 190 countries also showed that the number of governments imposing various forms of religious discrimination has reached a record high since the beginning of the study in 2007, viz. up to 183 countries.
The study, which was part of the Pew-Templeton Global Religious Futures project, revealed that social tension and official policies contribute to the persecution of religious communities.
Being the largest religion in the world, Christians have been subjected to various forms of persecution – from physical violence to derogatory remarks.
Reports of physical attacks and property destruction have been received from various parts of the world.
The report also highlights the contradictory nature of state policy towards religion: many countries fund religious institutions while simultaneously enforcing restrictive laws and persecuting religious leaders.
In 2021, the average global level of official religious restrictions increased, suggesting that religious activities are coming under stricter scrutiny.
The fact that the overall average score of the index for all countries has increased raises questions about the motives of state policy towards religious organizations.
Meanwhile, the study served as a sobering reminder of the difficulties faced by religious groups around the world and the need for stricter protection of religious freedom.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that Orthodox journalists from the UOJ would be included in the "Prisoners of Conscience" list.
