Although Bangladesh has dropped to 33rd place on the latest World Watch List, Christians in the country continue to experience serious persecution in different forms, including family rejection, violence, and community pressure.
In one case, a young mother has been left by her husband shortly after giving birth, after she chose to follow Christianity. Sabina (name changed for security reasons) first came across the Christian faith while working with a Christian organisation during her studies. After marrying a Muslim man and moving near Dhaka, she later began attending church quietly.
Despite facing opposition at home, she continued in her new faith. However, after the birth of her child, her husband left and she has since lost contact with him. She is now living with her mother and brother, who are not Christians and are struggling financially. With no stable income, she is uncertain about how she will support her child while continuing in her faith. Christian workers are providing emergency food support and prayer.
In another incident in Dhaka, a Catholic priest was injured during a robbery at St Eugene de Mazenod Catholic Church. The attack has unsettled the local Christian community, with leaders expressing concern about the safety of places of worship. The priest is currently stable and receiving medical care, while authorities continue to investigate the case.
Further north, a Christian family is facing growing pressure to abandon their faith. Mizan (name changed), who serves as an evangelist, lives with his wife and son in a village where they are the only known Christians. Local reports say a religious teacher has encouraged villagers to pressure Christian converts to return to Islam. The family has been warned to leave the area or give up their faith. Christian workers fear this could signal a rise in similar incidents in the region.
In a separate case, a Christian convert named Atahar lost his livelihood after a large crowd reportedly targeted his tea business. His shop was damaged, and goods were taken during the incident. Two other Christian traders were also forced out of the local market. Despite this, Atahar has said he remains committed to his faith and does not regret his decision to follow Christ.
Christian organisations working in the region say believers continue to face social pressure, economic hardship, and occasional violence, despite their small numbers. They are calling for continued prayer and support for Christians in Bangladesh who are trying to remain faithful in difficult circumstances.
Based on reporting by Open Doors.
