How are Christians persecuted in Chad?
- Jihadist attacks are likely to target Christian men for murder or abduction, and they are sometimes forcibly recruited into jihadist groups as fighters.
- Women and girls are subject to forced divorce, forced marriage, house arrest, physical and sexual violence within their communities and families, if they convert from Islam.
- Christians also face economic harassment by losing job and business opportunities.
- Although Chad’s Constitution promises religious freedom, it can be difficult to legally convert and to register churches.
“My uncle asked me to stop going to church or he would end my life.”
Malloum*
Why are Christians persecuted in Chad?
- Chad faces immense challenges due to its proximity to countries struggling with radical jihadist groups – with the aim of eradicating Christianity – and sometimes these extremist groups encroach within the borders of Chad.
- Displacement crises from surrounding countries (especially Sudan) have contributed to instability. Hundreds of thousands of refugees have crossed into Chad.
- In regions dominated by Islam, those who convert to Christianity are persecuted by family members who are angered by their conversion.
Who is particularly vulnerable in Chad?
- Converts from Islam are particularly vulnerable to persecution from their community, particularly in areas where extremist Muslim religious leaders are active.
- Christians living in areas where attacks from Boko Haram are prevalent are most at risk of violence.
- Displacement camps are also places of intensified persecution, with Christians vulnerable to hostile or violent opposition to their faith.
“I give God the glory for the assistance.”
astor Bernadin, supported by Open Doors partners in his work in displacement camps
What has changed in Chad in the past year?
- Chad has entered the World Watch List top 50 this year, rising seven places. This is largely due to a sharp increase in reports of violence and pressure stemming from rising Islamic radicalism.
- Christians in Chad faced significant persecution last year, expanding in both scope and intensity, with many being displaced and their properties burned or destroyed.
- Local believers report a growing tide of Islamic extremism, especially among younger religious leaders who promote intolerance, fostering an intimidating environment for Christians.
How can I help Christians in Chad?
Please keep praying for your brothers and sisters in Chad. Your gifts and prayers make an enormous difference to those following Jesus no matter the cost.
Open Doors works through the local church in Chad to provide important resources like persecution preparedness training, discipleship, economic empowerment and care for new believers.
*Name changed for security reasons
Lord, we mourn as Chad has become an even harder place for Your people to thrive. We ask You to bring healing and hope to Your suffering church in Chad, and to bring peace to this part of Africa. Please help Your people be salt and light as they courageously follow You. In Jesus’s name, Amen.
