Those who convert from Islam or to non-traditional denominations are threatened.
bottom“When we left our home, it was very difficult. We couldn’t even find a way to get out; we hid in a neighbour’s house three houses down. I can’t explain the pain and worry I felt in the chaos. Our possessions were destroyed; we lost everything …”
– Desta*
In Ethiopia, Christian communities are facing serious religious freedom issues. Non-traditional Christians get the harshest treatment from local authorities and the Ethiopian Orthodox Church (EOC). Converts from Islam, especially in the east and southeast, and those from Orthodox backgrounds face intense family and community pressure. In other regions, Christians are attacked by Islamist mobs and often denied community resources, leading to social isolation.
The political violence over the past three years, along with recent conflicts in the Tigray, Amhara, and Oromia regions have made things worse for Christians. Many churches have been attacked and destroyed, and even those seeking refuge in churches were not safe from violence.
However, the most overt forms of persecution happen in areas dominated by Islam. In these regions, converts to Christianity can face social ostracism and church attacks by Islamic extremists. Families and communities may pressure converts and use violence against them in attempts to get them to return to Islam.
The risk of persecution for Christians varies depending on the region and the dominant forces at play. In areas such as the Amhara region, Tigray, and parts of Oromia, persecution from the EOC and the authorities runs high. Christians face significant threats in these areas for their decision to be part of non-traditional churches outside the EOC. These regions are hotspots where violations are particularly severe. In parts of the country’s eastern and western regions, Islamist oppression is more prevalent. The geographical distribution of these violations highlights the complex and varied nature of persecution across the country.
– For believers facing pressure when they leave Islam or the Ethiopian Orthodox Church.
– For believers living in areas where they are targeted for following Jesus.
– For unity among all Christians in Ethiopia, that they will remain dedicated to Jesus.
Open Doors works through the local church to strengthen Christians in Ethiopia with leadership, persecution survival training, and economic empowerment projects.
