Christians in Bangladesh targeted as they emerge from hiding

Bangladesh was thrown into political turmoil last year, prompting a backlash against Christians and other religious minorities. Many believers were forced into hiding, but as they have begun to emerge again, attacks have resumed. Our Bangladeshi family asks for your continued prayers.

There has been a resurgence in targeted attacks on Christians in Bangladesh as they emerge from hiding following last year’s political and social unrest.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was ousted in August 2024, prompting increasing attacks on religious minorities, including Christians. The homes and businesses of Christians were targeted, and believers faced threats and pressure to renounce their faith.

The nationwide wave of violence forced many Christians into hiding for fear of their lives. However, as more have begun to emerge, attacks have resurfaced, bringing renewed fear and isolation. Believers from Muslim and tribal backgrounds in rural areas of western and northern Bangladesh are worst affected, with scattered incidents in cities.

According to Open Doors local partners, there have been 36 reports of attacks on believers and their properties since last August, with more than 100 families pressured to renounce their faith. However, there are likely to be many more unreported incidents, as some may not have shared their experiences due to fear, shame or security.

“Please pray for us, as the persecution is still ongoing,” says Zahid*, whose home and church were destroyed and looted last year by some 500 extremists. “Many believers are still in hiding for their safety. Please pray that we can continue to live in this area as followers of Jesus Christ, and that persecution will not happen again.”

Why are Christians targeted?

According to Rajon*, a local partner, perceived political affiliation could partly explain the escalation in attacks since last year. “Members of minority religious communities, including Christians, are frequently accused of supporting the Awami League political party [led by Sheik Hasina] and are targeted following the party’s downfall. Changes in political power can often result in attacks on religious minorities and the confiscation of their property.”

But an Islamic agenda could also be at play. “Persecution can be influenced by religious beliefs and teachings, with some Muslim leaders portraying Christians as enemies and promoting the idea of establishing a 100% Islamic State,” explains Rajon. “This agenda includes converting Christians back to Islam and targeting church leaders and families to instil fear and pressure them to renounce their faith.”

Another factor is that attackers – some of whom are reportedly affiliated with radical Islamist groups – are being allowed to go unpunished for their crimes. “The lack of justice and accountability for perpetrators of persecution further exacerbates the situation. False teachings and misinformation about Christianity perpetuated by some Muslims contribute to a culture of hatred and discrimination against non-Muslims. Some Muslims intentionally spread falsehoods about Christianity, leading to a distorted perception of the religion and fostering animosity towards its followers.”

Resilient faith

Incredibly, Christians in Bangladesh are staying resilient in their faith, helped by your prayers and support.

Arif* has twice faced death threats – once last year after the protests and again in January. “I hid due to my fear and my health worsened,” he says. “Now I am moving forward, leaving all the fear behind and keeping my faith in Jesus. Thank you all and thank You God. I want to ask for your prayers, so that I can obey the commands of Jesus Christ, share the Good News, and make more strong disciples.”

• What’s it like to be a Christian in Bangladesh?

“The reason was because I am a follower of Jesus Christ,” says Amin, whose shop was destroyed and looted by extremists. “They also threatened to kill me. Then a few of my fellow believers came, stood by me, and extended their hands to help me. Since then, I am doing well. Please pray for us so that my family and I can stand firm in our faith.”

“We urge you to pray”

At the end of this year, elections are scheduled to begin, running until June 2026, the process and outcome of which could have significant implications for our Bangladeshi family. A key area of possible contention is the country’s secular constitution, Article 12 of which states the prohibition of religious discrimination and discouraging the use of religion in politics.

“If Islamic religious-based political parties assume power, it is thought that the situation is likely to deteriorate,” says Rajon. “Conversely, if liberal political parties take the reins, there is a possibility of improvement, although nothing is certain.

“We urge you to pray faithfully for the safety of persecuted Christians in Bangladesh. We seek an end to the attacks on Christians and to stop any attempt to amend the constitution in a way that would negatively impact the rights of religious minority groups.”

*Names changed for security reasons