PRAY FOR JORDAN
– Thank God that many believers in Jordan can worship openly.
– For those who have lost friends or family because they follow Jesus.
– That those called to share their faith can do so boldly and safely.
WORLD WATCH LIST
Jordan
#49Christians may face employment discrimination, monitoring, and restrictions.
bottom“I used to be a bully, a troublemaker. I am a new creation now in Jesus Christ.”
– Tareq*, a believer from Jordan
Country
Profile
- Region
- Middle East
- Sources of persecution
- Clan Oppression,
Islamic oppression - Population
- 11,442,000
- Christian population
- 170,000
- Religions
- Islam
- Leader
- King Abdullah II
- Score
- 65
What’s Life Like For Christians?
Most Christians in Jordan belong to Orthodox or Roman Catholic churches and generally enjoy a relatively high degree of religious freedom. Even so, they may face discrimination in employment, government monitoring, and restrictions on public preaching. Christians converts from Islam risk violence, arrest, or even death from their families or extremist groups if they openly express their faith. Unrecognised churches, particularly those that evangelise, may face harassment from the authorities.
Despite Jordan’s reputation for tolerance and interfaith dialogue, Islamic extremists continue to pose a threat to Christians and other minorities. Additionally, the Gaza conflict has fueled Islamic conservatism, support for Hamas, boycotts of international brands, and greater Islamic visibility. This has led to increased social pressure and distancing from Christians, even as the government maintains policies promoting religious tolerance.
Who Is Most Vulnerable To Persecution?
Leaving Islam is not criminalised, but it is prohibited. Converts risk referral to Sharia courts and losing their legal status and contracts, including their marriages. They face monitoring, harassment, exclusion from public-sector employment, and being socially ostracised. Christians who share their faith may experience pressure and detention.
What Does Open Doors Do To Help?
In cooperation with local partners and churches, Open Doors supports the church in Jordan through training, relief and rehabilitation, research, and prayer.
