8. Pakistan
Region
Asia
Christian population
4 526 000 (1.8%)
Main relegion
Islam
Main threat
• Islamic oppression
• Dictatorial paranoia
• Clan oppression
• Organised corruption and crime
Total score
87%
Pressure
84.7%
Violence
99.8%
As a minority in Pakistan, Christians are exposed to many challenges, from everyday discrimination to the threat of deadly violence.
Increasingly, Pakistan’s notorious blasphemy laws are used to intimidate Christians and other religious minorities. Often, they are used to target believers during unrelated feuds, such as disputes over land. Even an accusation can provoke mob violence against victims, as well as their families and the wider Christian community. Weak government and the growing influence of extreme Islamic groups mean that Christians have limited protection from the law, adding to their vulnerability.
Most Christians descend from an “untouchable” caste of sweepers and continue to face institutionalised discrimination. Many live in poverty, trapped in a cycle of bonded labour that entrenches their position on the margins of Pakistani society.
Christians from a Muslim background can face severe repercussions for choosing to follow Jesus. These threats come from families and radical Islamic groups who see conversion as a shameful act of betrayal.
Please pray
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Pray for those accused unjustly of blasphemy and ask that God will help them avoid imprisonment or vigilante “justice”.
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Pray that believers forced into menial jobs because of their identities as followers of Christ will be sustained and know their value.
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Pakistan’s recent conflict with India left believers in both places filled with fear. Thank God that a ceasefire has held, and pray that God’s perfect peace will reign.