22. Central African              Republic

Region

Africa

 

Christian population

4 470 000 (73.3%)

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Main relegion

Christianity

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Main threats

• Islamic oppression
• Organised corruption and crime

The already fragile situation in the Central African Republic (CAR) continues to worsen, with conflict in neighbouring Sudan adding external pressure. Escalating violence in Sudan risks spilling into CAR, intensifying insecurity for vulnerable populations – especially Christians.

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Internally, the collapse of state authority has fostered widespread lawlessness. Armed groups, corrupt officials and jihadist elements exploit this vacuum, often targeting Christians. Churches have been looted or destroyed, and outspoken Christian leaders face threats, detention or assassination. Women and youth are particularly exposed to exploitation and abuse.

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Religious and ethnic violence by armed factions has forced thousands of Christians into displacement. Many live in overcrowded camps with little security or aid. In northern and remote regions, Muslim-background converts to Christianity face physical assault, forced isolation and rejection by their families. These abuses go largely unpunished, reinforcing fear and a sense of helplessness. In CAR, Christian communities increasingly find themselves without protection – trapped between state failure and militant hostility.