How are Christians persecuted in Ethiopia?The Ethiopian Orthodox Church (EOC) does not recognise Protestant groups as true Christianity. Its factions often depict Evangelical Christians as enemies of the country, leading to increased pressure and stigmatisation of believers.Threats also arise from Muslim-majority communities who often discriminate against converts from Islam. Such treatment can range from social rejection to physical violence, and Ethiopia has seen many mob attacks and church burnings in 2025.“The mobs believed that after our property was destroyed, Christians would convert to Islam. Their goal was to eliminate Christianity,” says Jemal*, whose community was attacked.
“Their goal was to eliminate Christianity.”
Jemal, whose community was attacked by a mobWhy are Christians persecuted in Ethiopia?The EOC has a long-standing influence on national identity and so likely shapes the perspectives of many citizens on Protestant and evangelical Christians.The country has an already-fragile security situation, increasing the risk of attack on Christians and lessening the repercussions for those who carry out violence and discrimination.Who is particularly vulnerable in Ethiopia?Those living in areas dominated by the EOC may face discrimination and social exclusion if they leave the Orthodox Church.Similarly, areas where Islam is most prevalent can increase the hardships of believers with a Muslim background. Christian communities in such regions may be targeted by extremists.What has changed in Ethiopia in the past year?
Sign the petition
You can sign the Arise Africa petition, calling for protection, justice and restoration for vulnerable Christians in Nigeria and across sub-Saharan Africa.
Sign nowEven though Ethiopia fell by three spots on the World Watch List, its overall persecution score did not change. The fall was because of worsening persecution in other countries. Throughout 2025, believers were subject to attacks in various areas like the Oromia region. At least 25 churches were burned, destroyed or raided, and entire congregations scattered.Kidnappings are becoming an increasing worry for Christians, especially in rural areas. Families have often had to pay a large ransom to rescue their relatives.How can I help Christians in Ethiopia?Please continue to pray for our Ethiopian brothers and sisters. Amidst the pressures and the fears they face, your support enables them to stand firm for Jesus.
“The support of this ministry gives us the energy to persevere.”
Pastor Eliso“The support of this ministry gives us the energy to persevere,” says Pastor Eliso. “People’s lives have been changed.”
Open Doors works in Ethiopia to provide psychosocial care and spiritual resilience training, intergenerational ministry skills training, economic empowerment projects and encourage justice for persecuted believers.
*Name changed for security reasons
please pray
Lord, we know 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 the places they live are 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.