36. Ethiopia
Region
Africa
Christian population
81 388 000 (61.2%)
Main relegion
Christianity
Main threats
• Islamic oppression
• Christian denominational protectionism
Persecution in Ethiopia is complicated because it varies according to the type of Christian and where they live. Converts from Islam can face severe hostility, ranging from family rejection to physical violence. In Muslim-majority regions, converts can also suffer mob attacks, church burnings and discrimination. Ethiopia’s fragile security situation often intensifies this.
The Ethiopian Orthodox Church (EOC) has long influenced national identity. Its ultra-conservative factions often portray Protestant and Evangelical Christians as foreign and unpatriotic. This can lead to widespread stigmatisation and pressure, especially against believers who have left Orthodoxy for other Christian traditions. These believers can also face pressure from their Orthodox families and community.
Total score
70%
Pressure
65.6%
Violence
93.3%
Please pray
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Ask God to keep believers safe who leave Islam or the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and join evangelical communities as they face rejection and persecution from their families and communities.
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Pray for protection for believers who live in areas where Islamic extremists are active and who can be targeted by them.
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Pray for Open Doors’ work through our partners in Ethiopia, including trauma care and school projects, to lead to better treatment of God’s people.