How are Christians persecuted in Pakistan?
- Christians are disproportionately targeted by Pakistan’s notorious blasphemy laws. While they only comprise 1.8% of the population, about a quarter of all blasphemy allegations are made against Christians.
- Blasphemy laws carry a death sentence. In practice, this is seldom carried out – but accusations of blasphemy can lead to mob violence, and even murder. In June 2024, a 73-year-old Pakistani Christian called Lazar was brutally beaten to death after being falsely accused of burning the Quran.
- Girls and women are vulnerable to abduction, forced marriage, sexual violence and forced conversion. Even if they escape, the ‘shame’ of abduction and rape casts a huge shadow over their lives.
- The attack on Christian homes and buildings in Jaranwala in 2023 continues to contribute to a culture of fear.
- Historical churches have relative freedom for worship and other activities. However, they are heavily monitored and have been targeted for bomb attacks.
“Pray that our times would be good, for our churches to have crosses on them again and the sound of singing within them and the light of hope to extend from them.”
A local believer from Jaranwala
Why are Christians persecuted in Pakistan?
- In Pakistan’s honour/shame culture, it is considered deeply shameful for a family member to leave Islam – and so converts face intense opposition from their own family and community, including so-called ‘honour’ killing.
- All Christians suffer from institutionalised discrimination, and occupations that are deemed low, dirty and degrading – such as working as a sewer cleaner or on a brick kiln – are reserved for Christians by the authorities.
- Muslims are encouraged not to accept Christian men into more senior positions in the workplace, since Islamic customs promote an attitude of Muslim superiority in society.
Who is particularly vulnerable in Pakistan?
- Christians from a Muslim background suffer the brunt of persecution, both from radical Islamic groups who see them as apostates, and from families, friends and neighbours who see conversion as a shameful act of betrayal to family and community.
- Most Christians live in Punjab Province, and consequently this is the area of Pakistan where many incidents of persecution and discrimination are recorded.
“We are in a spiritual battle… So we will be Christ – even to our enemies. We will show them that our faith is stronger than their hate.”
Rashid*
What has changed in Pakistan in the past year?
- Although the new government coalition established in February 2024 seems to have settled in, politics in Pakistan remains highly polarised, which could lead to religious minorities, including Christians, facing increased pressure and attacks.
- Pakistan has fallen one place on the World Watch List, but the persecution score has not changed. The change in position is due to persecution worsening in other countries.
How can I help Christians in Pakistan?
- Please keep praying for your brothers and sisters in Pakistan. Your prayers make an enormous difference to those following Jesus no matter the cost.
Open Doors is active in the Persian Gulf countries, including Pakistan, through the HOPE (Helping Others Pray and Encourage) Community.
*Name changed for security reasons
Lord God, we pray for protection around our sisters and brothers in Pakistan – remind them that You are with them in all things and will never leave them (Deuteronomy 31:6). Bring an end to the mob violence and polarisation of the country; open the eyes of Muslims to the value of Christians that they may live and work together in harmony. Strengthen Your church and may their witness shine Your light and love in the darkness. Amen.
