Colombia

World Watch: 46
100

0
Leader
President Gustavo Petro

How many Christians?
49.7 million (94.9%)

Main threats
  • Organised corruption and crime
  • Clan oppression

How are Christians persecuted in Colombia?

  • Although most Colombians are Christians, believers – particularly pastors – are still at risk of being physically assaulted, kidnapped, extorted for financial gain, forced to leave their regions, or even murdered.
  • Christian men and boys are at risk of abduction, forced recruitment and violence at the hands of criminal armed groups. 
  • In gang-controlled territories, young Christian girls can become the targets for seduction or trafficking by cartel leaders.
  • Converts from indigenous communities may be beaten, harassed, threatened, or sent away to do forced labour in the territory. 
  • Female converts from this communities may be pressured into marriage to a non-Christian or, if already married, can be abandoned by their husbands and separated from their children.

“The church is under surveillance – many have left because of fear.”

Pastor Salomón

Why are Christians persecuted in Colombia?

  • The fragile peace between the government and guerrilla groups in Colombia has had limited impact. Although the violence has receded, guerrilla groups, often linked to drug gangs, have grown more powerful and control more territory.
  • Because Christians oppose Colombia’s powerful drug cartels and guerrilla groups, they are singled out for attack.
  • Church leaders are particularly at risk because they are seen as competing for influence over the young people who are often targeted for recruitment by guerrilla groups.
  • In some indigenous communities, Christian preachers and indigenous converts can face intense hostility because they are seen as traitors who have betrayed their tribe or community.

“Because you preach the gospel, you are no longer considered part of the family.”

David*, an indigenous believer

Who is particularly vulnerable in Colombia?

  • Christians living in areas controlled by guerrilla groups and/or drug gangs are most vulnerable – particularly church leaders.
  • Believers who convert from an indigenous faith are also especially vulnerable to persecution.

What has changed in Colombia in the past year?

  • Colombia has fallen 12 places on the World Watch List – though this corresponds to only two points in persecution score. The main reason for the lower score is a decrease in recorded incidents of violence.
  • The success of the peace plan between the government and rebel groups has been very varied, and some believe it has led to more violence in the country. The continuing political stability makes the future uncertain for believers, who remain at risk.

How can I help Christians in Colombia?

Please keep praying for your brothers and sisters in Colombia. Your gifts and prayers make an enormous difference to those following Jesus no matter the cost.

Open Doors strengthens the persecuted church in Colombia through Bible distribution, training, trauma care, community development projects, emergency relief aid and assistance in legal proceedings.

*Name changed for security reasons

please pray

Heavenly Father, we pray for Christians who risk so much to follow You in Colombia – especially those who live in areas controlled by rebel groups or cartels. We ask You to give them courage but also wisdom; that they would know when and how to speak, and how they can best serve You. Please, work through Your people! In Jesus’s name, Amen.

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