*Because the World Watch List research period was from 1 October 2023 to 30 September 2024, the persecution score may not reflect the reality of life in Syria after the fall of the Assad regime on 8 December 2024.
How are Christians persecuted in Syria?
- Christians often face violence. Church leaders are particularly vulnerable to abduction, and several remain missing. Kidnapping a leader is likely to undermine the Christian community.
- Women and girls from religious minority groups – including Christians – risk abduction, sexual harassment and sexual violence. They may also face domestic violence, forced marriage or even so-called ‘honour’ killing.
- Throughout Syria, Christian men face discrimination in the workplace. Unemployed Christians have immense difficulty obtaining a job, and employed Christians stand little chance of being promoted.
Why are Christians persecuted in Syria?
- The legacy of the takeover of Syria by groups with certain ideologies can still be seen.
- Large numbers of Christians left their place of origin to go to other majority Christian areas as internally displaced people, or have left the country. While some believers have returned to rebuild their lives and communities, there are still far fewer than there used to be.
- Christians from other backgrounds may be considered to have brought ‘shame’ on their families.
Who is particularly vulnerable in Syria?
- Syria has a historic Christian community, which is afforded some degree of openness in their faith. But Christians from other denominations can face great danger.
What has changed in Syria in the past year?
- Because the World Watch List research period was from 1 October 2023 to 30 September 2024, the persecution score may not reflect the reality of life in Syria after the fall of the Assad regime on 8 December 2024.
- Syria fell six places on the World Watch List, largely because the number of reported violent incidents fell.
How can I help Christians in Syria?
- Please keep praying for your brothers and sisters in Syria. Your prayers make an enormous difference to those following Jesus no matter the cost.
Open Doors raises prayer for Christians in Syria.
please pray
Lord, we pray for Christians in Syria who have been forced from their communities. Bring them hope and comfort. We remember those who love You but face strong opposition and danger: give them courage and let them know Your care. After so many years of turmoil, we pray that Syria will finally have a fair, stable government, peace and justice. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
