Protest for religious freedom outside Eritrean Embassy in London

London, UK – Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW), Release Eritrea and Christian Concern for Freedom of Conscience (CCFC) held a joint protest outside the Eritrean Embassy in White Lion Street, London on June 9.

The aim was to highlight the Eritrean government’s decision of 22 May 2002 to effectively outlaw denominations representing hundreds of Christians. According to the decision, all churches, except the Orthodox, Roman Catholic or Lutheran denominations faced closure, and all other religious practices except Islam were forbidden. The protest called for freedom of religion and the unconditional release of Christian prisoners of conscience.

Over 400 Christians are currently imprisoned in Eritrea and several have suffered maltreatment as the authorities have sought to force them to renounce their manner of worship. From time to time, the authorities have stormed churches and other Christian institutions, arresting the minority community by hundreds, often detaining them for months and subjecting them to severe torture. And now, with the recent government decision taking effect, it is almost impossible for Christians from non–sanctioned churches to meet, even informally, without risking indefinite detention.

Eritrea, listed as a country of particular concern by the US State Department for its violations of religious freedom, has witnessed several arrests of Christians till date. Many Christians were arrested while attending New Year celebrations, weddings or other social functions. One pastor was snatched from his car while driving through the capital city Asmara. In some cases the mere possession of a Bible or holding family devotional times are seen as sufficient evidence of guilt.

“The persecution of Christians in Eritrea has worsened considerably as a result of the government’s decision to ban all but three Christian denominations. People are often kept in appalling conditions for months and even years simply for calling themselves Christians,” said Mervyn Thomas, Chief Executive of CSW. “It is CSW’s privilege to stand with the Eritrean church to call for urgent improvements to religious freedom in that country.”