WORLD WATCH LIST

Pakistan

Christians live in constant fear of blasphemy accusations and violent threats.

"At work, it is dangerous to discuss my faith in Jesus in any way. We have to hide our identity. We cannot even say the name of Christ."

– Rehena

Country
Profile

Region: Asia
Sources of persecution: Islamic Oppression
Population: 233,757,000
Christian population: 4,195,000
Religions: Islam
Leader: Interim Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar
Score: 87

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What’s Life Like For Christians?

The devastating attack on the Christian community in Jaranwala in August 2023 was a sobering reminder of the hostile environment facing many believers in Pakistan. The attack on more than 20 churches and almost 100 homes was in response to allegations that two believers had desecrated the Quran.

Pakistan’s notorious blasphemy laws are often used to target minority groups, but Christians are disproportionately affected. Indeed, roughly a quarter of all blasphemy accusations target Christians, who only make up 1.8% of the population.

Believers are targeted in other ways, too—both overtly and subtly. The number of Christian girls (and those from other minority religions) abducted, abused, and forcefully converted to Islam is growing, while churches that engage in outreach are particularly prone to opposition. All Christians suffer from institutionalised discrimination, and occupations that are deemed low, dirty and degrading—such as working as a sewer cleaner or on a brick kiln—are reserved for Christians by the authorities. Many are referred to as ‘chura’, a derogatory term meaning ‘filthy.’

Historical churches have relative freedom for worship and other activities. However, they are heavily monitored and have been targeted for bomb attacks.

Who Is Most Vulnerable To Persecution?

Christian girls as young as 8 years old, primarily from poor families and including those with disabilities, are kidnapped, forcibly married, sexually abused, and forced to convert to Islam. For victims who return home, the shame of abduction creates additional problems within Pakistan’s honour-based culture. 

Christians from a Muslim background suffer immense persecution from radical Islamic groups and their own families, who see conversion as a shameful act of betrayal to family and community. 

PRAY FOR PAKISTAN

– That Christians will be protected from false allegations of blasphemy.

– That believers will hold on to their identity as children of God.

– For the protection and welfare of Christian women and girls.

What Does Open Doors Do To Help?

Open Doors is active in the Persian Gulf countries, including Pakistan, through local partners who focus on building Christian networks and communities, supporting Christian leaders, and hosting various discipleship and training projects.