The 2026 World Watch List
The World Watch List is Open Doors' annual ranking of the 50 countries where Christians face the most extreme persecution. Explore each country profile and download the data and stories for in-depth information about following Jesus in the most dangerous places. You'll learn more about Christian persecution and discover how to stand with your brothers and sisters in prayer and action.
More than 388m Christians suffer high levels of persecution and discrimination for their faith.
In Open Doors' World Watch List top 50 alone, 315m+ Christians face very high or extreme persecution. Explore the country profiles to find information, stories and prayers for each of the countries, along with ways that you can stand with your persecuted church family in prayer and action. More about the World Watch List
1 in 7 Christians are persecuted worldwide
1 in 5 Christians are persecuted in Africa
2 in 5 Christians are persecuted in Asia
Discover the top 10 countries on the World Watch List.
01North Korea
02Somalia
03Yemen
04Sudan
05Eritrea
06Syria
07Nigeria
08Pakistan
09Libya
10Iran
Violence in Numbers
4,849
Christians murdered
4,712
Christians detained
3,632
Churches and Christian properties attacked
Download your free WWL 2026 Map!
About the List
The World Watch List is compiled by Open Doors' research using real-world data from experts on the ground in 100 countries. Persecution of Christians is measured with a comprehensive points system which tracks violence and pressure. This measures the number and severity of violent incidents against Christians and the degree of pressure exerted against the practice of their faith in 5 spheres of life.
Pressure
Degree of pressure in 5 spheres of Christian life.
PRIVATE LIFE
FAMILY LIFE
COMMUNITY LIFE
NATIONAL LIFE
CHURCH LIFE
Maximum score for each section: 16.7
Violence
Number and severity of violent incidents against Christians and church.
Maximum score: 16.7
The Year Impossible Faith Became Essential
Stand with persecuted Christians in ways that matter
Whether you give, pray, or take action, your support brings hope, strength, and the gospel to believers facing persecution around the world.
Support persecuted Christians
Make a direct impact through giving and help provide Bibles, relief, and long-term support.
Pray with the global Church
Stand with persecuted Christians through prayer and receive real-time requests from the field.
Learn and take action
Discover powerful stories, raise awareness, and take simple steps to stand with persecuted Christians.