Christians across several countries in Africa and Latin America are facing increasing violence and pressure because of extremist attacks, government hostility, and criminal organisations. Despite being majority-Christian in population, many of these nations are struggling to protect believers from targeted persecution.
Violence in Africa driven by Islamic extremism
In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), where Christians make up around 95% of the population, armed groups linked to the Islamic State are carrying out deadly attacks. Groups such as ISIS-DRC, also known as the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), and ISCAP have been responsible for hundreds of killings this year alone.
A report from the European Parliament in March 2024 called ISCAP “the deadliest armed group in the DRC.” Between January and June this year, the Islamic State claimed responsibility for killing nearly 700 Christians across Africa.
One of the worst incidents took place in February 2025, when 70 Christians were reportedly beheaded inside a Protestant church in Kasanga. Other attacks included a church bombing in North Kivu during a baptism service and assaults on villages where dozens were killed, including children.
Mozambique has also seen serious violence. While Christians make up about 62% of the population, extremists continue to attack them. According to Christian aid organisations, churches have been burned, leaders kidnapped, and believers killed—especially in the northern Cabo Delgado province.
In Nigeria, persecution has reached alarming levels. Christians make up nearly half the population but face ongoing violence from jihadist groups. For over two decades, thousands have been killed in attacks targeting churches and communities. Men are often murdered, and women are kidnapped and abused. Homes, churches, and livelihoods are destroyed in these assaults.
Oppression in Latin America from governments and cartels
In Cuba, where the majority of the population is believed to be Catholic, churches that speak out against human rights violations by the government are often harassed or shut down. The communist regime continues to monitor and restrict religious freedom.
Mexico, a country where 88% of the population identifies as Christian, faces threats from drug cartels. Criminal groups see churches as financial targets, demanding money and attacking those who speak out. In some Indigenous communities, Christians who convert from traditional beliefs also face hostility and violence.
In Nicaragua, Christians make up over 80% of the population. But the socialist government has been cracking down on churches that criticise its actions. Many believers, including clergy, have been jailed or forced to flee the country.
Growing global concern
Christian persecution is spreading to countries once considered safe for the faith. The rise in religious violence, oppression, and threats is a serious concern for believers worldwide. Christian leaders and human rights groups warn that the continued targeting of followers of Christ will have lasting effects on future generations if left unaddressed.
Adapted from International Christian Concern.
