London, 16 January 2025 — A significant gathering of 102 Members of Parliament convened on 15 January for the parliamentary launch of the World Watch List 2025, underscoring the UK's commitment to addressing global religious persecution.
The event, co-hosted by Bishop Philip Mounstephen and the Rt Hon. Sir Stephen Timms MP, featured testimonies from individuals hailing from Nigeria, Bangladesh, and East Africa, who shared firsthand accounts of the challenges faced by persecuted Christians worldwide.
Henrietta Blyth, CEO of Open Doors UK and Ireland, presented key findings from the report, revealing that over 380 million Christians now endure high levels of persecution and discrimination—a 15 million increase from the previous year. She emphasized the pervasive rise of authoritarianism, particularly in Central Asia, contributing to the suppression of religious freedoms.
Pakistan's Alarming Persecution Dynamics
The World Watch List 2025 places Pakistan among the top ten countries where Christians face extreme persecution. The nation is home to numerous radical Islamic groups, with advisory bodies increasingly dominated by Islamic scholars influencing national laws. Christians, especially those with a Muslim background, bear the brunt of religious freedom violations, facing threats from both radical groups and their own communities.
Pakistan's notorious blasphemy laws are frequently weaponized against minority groups, disproportionately affecting Christians who constitute just 1.8% of the population. Alarmingly, approximately 25% of all blasphemy accusations target Christians. These laws, which carry the death penalty, often incite mob violence against the accused. Additionally, there is a troubling rise in the abduction, abuse, and forced conversion of Christian girls, with perpetrators often evading justice due to systemic biases.
Calls for Action
The parliamentary launch serves as a critical platform for UK policymakers to engage with the realities of global religious persecution. The presence of over 100 MPs, including many newly elected members, signifies a growing awareness and willingness to address these pressing issues. Open Doors UK & Ireland continues to advocate for robust policies that protect religious freedoms and support persecuted communities worldwide.
As the plight of Christians in Pakistan and other nations remains dire, the international community is urged to take decisive actions to safeguard religious minorities and uphold the fundamental right to freedom of belief.
