How are Christians persecuted in Türkiye?
- In Türkiye (also known as Turkey), Christians face everyday discrimination for their faith – whether in job applications, legal procedures or when entering/re-entering the country.
- Converts from Islam can face threats, arrest, imprisonment, job loss, disinheritance or expulsion from their family. Violence against women, including murder, has massively increased under the current government.
- Churches struggle with legal obstacles and red tape intended to obstruct the practice of their faith.
Why are Christians persecuted in Türkiye?
- There is a strong sense of nationalism in Türkiye today, which regards being a Muslim as necessary to being a loyal Turk. This puts considerable social pressure on Turkish Christians.
- Although Christianity has an extremely long history in the country, it is still seen as a negative Western influence, even by moderate Muslims and secular Turks who are proud of their national identity.
- Most people who convert face strong pressure from their families to change their minds – it is not illegal, but it is considered shameful.
Who is particularly vulnerable in Türkiye?
- Converts from Islam face the most persecution, though historical Christian groups – such as the Armenian and Assyrian (Syriac) churches – face high pressure and hostility in the south eastern region of Türkiye.
What has changed in Türkiye in the past year?
- More church buildings were targeted than in previous years, in addition to two reported killings. This increase in violence is the main reason that Türkiye has risen five places on the World Watch List this year.
- Some members of the Protestant community were banned from entering the country and several immigrant Christians were forced to leave the country.
- In the past year, Christian asylum seekers and refugees (including converts from Islam to Christianity) from countries including Iran, Afghanistan and Syria faced significant discrimination and abuse.
How can I help Christians in Türkiye?
Please keep praying for your brothers and sisters in Türkiye. Your prayers make an enormous difference to those following Jesus no matter the cost.
Open Doors local partners support Persian-speaking refugee believers with training, resources and practical support.
please pray
Father, we ask for true freedom of religion in Türkiye, with Christians seen as real Turks with an equal place in society. We pray against religious laws being enforced on Turkish citizens. Please protect people who find You amid in a Muslim context – give their families open hearts to hear their testimonies. Comfort and strengthen those who face fear and rejection for their faith. Amen.
