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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. This is often intensified by Ethiopia’s fragile security situation.
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.
Christians living in different parts of Ethiopia are likely to experience different kinds of persecution. Those living in regions dominated by the Ethiopian Orthodox Church may be persecuted if they leave that church for other expressions of Christianity, especially Evangelical Protestant or Pentecostal traditions. Christians living in Muslim-majority areas may be targeted by extremists regardless of their Christian tradition. In these areas, converts from Islam are likely to face the most pressure.
"[The mobs] believed that after our property was destroyed, Christians would convert to Islam. They thought, when they have nothing to eat or drink, they will return to Islam. They did not want Christians to remain in the town. Their goal was to eliminate Christianity."
"Jemal", Ethiopian believer whose business was burned in mob attacks.
Though Ethiopia fell by three positions on this year’s World Watch List, its overall persecution score was the same as last year. In 2025, armed groups carried out widespread attacks in the Oromia region and parts of Amhara. They burned, demolished or looted at least 25 churches. Worshippers were assaulted, religious materials destroyed and entire congregations scattered.
Christians are also at heightened risk of kidnapping, especially in Oromia’s rural districts and border areas with Amhara. Families report that captives are often released only after large ransoms are paid.
Ongoing instability and ethnic tensions also continue, creating difficult situations for many followers of Jesus.
Open Doors works in Ethiopia to provide psychosocial care and spiritual-resilience training, along with intergenerational ministry skills, training and economic empowerment. It works to increase the influence of the church and seek justice for persecuted believers.
Lord, we know that what happens to Christians in Ethiopia breaks Your heart – particularly when groups who claim Your name harm other believers. We ask for unity and a joyful spirit among all followers of Jesus in Ethiopia. We pray for protection for Christians, especially those who are at daily risk because where they live is unstable. We also ask for hope for converts from Islam, that they would know the love of brothers and sisters around the world even if they lose their earthly families. We ask this in Jesus’ mighty name. Amen.
