An enormous 95% of the population of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) are Christians – but violent attacks against Christians continue.
Persecution in DRC mostly takes the form of violent attacks. Although a very high percentage of the population are Christians, the Islamic extremist group Alliance for Democratic Forces (ADF) is responsible for the persecution of Christians in the east of the country, brutally attacking Christians and churches. In one district in eastern DRC, there are only four remaining Evangelical churches from 24 that were once active. While persecution is relatively low in other spheres of life, the particularly high levels of violence is why DRC is in the World Watch List top 50.
Converts both from Islam and from indigenous religions face pressure to take part in non-Christian religious activities and ceremonies. Christian leaders who advocate against corruption risk harassment and interference from the government.
Christians face violent persecution from Islamic militants who are particularly active in the eastern part of the country.
Georgine was widowed by Islamic extremists
"I am pleased to know that people are praying for me, for God to comfort me and my children.”
Georgine
Violence against Christians remains very high and continues to be the main form of persecution in DRC. In 2021, the government announced a state of siege in the north-eastern provinces to curb the violence perpetrated by the Allied Democratic Forces—but attacks on communities and churches continued.
Open Doors works through local partners to support Christians in DRC through persecution survival and discipleship training, economic empowerment projects and trauma care.
Dear Father, we weep with our brothers and sisters in DRC facing such terrible violence. Please equip church leaders in vulnerable regions as they comfort those who mourn, minister to the traumatized and displaced, and prepare their congregations for the persecution they face. We ask that You bring lasting peace to this suffering country. In Jesus name. Amen.
Very High