How are Christians persecuted in Comoros?
- Any foreigner suspected of sharing the gospel can be deported, while local Christians who preach Christianity or worship publicly will be prosecuted.
- Converts from Islam can be denied equal treatment in the family, verbally abused and, in some cases, even denied food. Women are particularly vulnerable to divorce, disinheritance and trafficking.
- Christian men also experience discrimination in the workplace, including being refused work because of their faith.
Why are Christians persecuted in Comoros?
- Comoros’s state religion is Islam, and it’s illegal to share any other faith than Sunni Islam. The authorities exert a particularly strict control over Comorian citizens and closely monitors migrants’ Christian activities.
- Christians can only legally worship in three designated churches, and it is very hard to train leaders or gather for services outside of these churches.
- Persecution also comes from family members: if a Comorian converts to Christianity, it is considered very shameful for the whole family.
Who is particularly vulnerable in Comoros?
- Converts from Islam face the lightest level of persecution, as leaving the Muslim faith is a crime.
“With the loan, I was able to buy a sewing machine and fabrics. I thank the Lord for all He is doing in my life.”
Nadia* was helped by a business loan from Open Doors partners
What has changed in Comoros in the past year?
- The nation’s presidential election in early 2024 was marred by violent protests; the victor is the same leader who has been in power since 2016, suggesting that little will change for Christians in Comoros.
- While violence remains relatively low in Comoros, there are increasing reports of violent incidents.
- In late 2023, the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom put Comoros on its ‘special watch list’, demonstrating that the country’s restrictions on religious minorities – including Christians – are internationally significant.
How can I help Christians the region?
Please keep praying for your brothers and sisters in Comoros. Your prayers make an enormous difference to those following Jesus no matter the cost.
Open Doors works through local partners to strength the persecuted church in the East African islands through discipleship and economic empowerment projects.
*Name changed for security reasons
Heavenly Father, please protect Your people in the Comoros islands. We especially pray for those who have converted from Islam to follow You. Please help them find community that strengthens them and helps their faith mature. We ask You to change the hearts of those who would oppose Your Kingdom, and pray that You will encourage and strengthen our brothers and sisters there. In Jesus’s name, Amen.
