According to the World Watch List 2026, more than 388 million Christians face high levels of persecution and discrimination. In Open Doors’ World Watch List top 50 countries alone, 315 million Christians face very high or extreme levels of persecution and discrimination for their faith.

Open Doors works to make sure their stories reach those who have the power to effect change.

The World Watch List Launch

Each January, Open Doors UK & Ireland presents these findings at the World Watch List Parliamentary Launch. This event gives MPs the opportunity to hear powerful, first-hand accounts from persecuted Christians – engaging with the issue of Christian persecution in a direct and personal way, and bringing the raw realities of their faith to the very centre of UK decision-making. The launch serves as a critical moment for policymakers to understand the gravity of persecution and consider what actions can be taken to support religious freedom around the world.

Ever since the World Watch List was first launched more than 30 years ago, it has provided a unique and significant opportunity to highlight the immense suffering facing millions of Christians worldwide.

This year, we had two parliamentary launches – in London and Northern Ireland. A record 112 MPs attended Westminster and 27 MLAs and 1 MP attended in Stormont, reflecting the growing awareness of this global issue within the UK and N. Ireland Parliament.

The launch event in Northern Ireland was a particularly exciting moment, being the first Open Doors event to be held in Stormont for over 10 years.

Why this matters

Our goal is to ensure that the UK government continues to take the issue of Christian persecution seriously and to advocate for change where it is most needed. By presenting the World Watch List and advocacy report directly to MPs and MLAs, we aim to keep this issue at the forefront of UK foreign policy.

The World Watch List not only documents the challenges faced by persecuted Christians – it offers hope. It highlights where support is most needed and recommends actions at both national and international levels, equipping policymakers with the knowledge they need to champion religious freedom effectively.

At its core, the World Watch List Parliamentary Launch is about giving a voice to those who often go unheard, ensuring that their plight remains a priority for governments and international bodies alike.