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Jordan
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The influence of extremism threatens Jordan’s reputation for religious tolerance.
“We remember and believe in the Word of God that says, ‘And I say to you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do."
What is persecution like in Jordan?
Most Christians in Jordan belong to Orthodox or Roman Catholic churches and generally enjoy a relatively high degree of religious freedom. Even so, they may face discrimination in employment, government monitoring and restrictions on public preaching. Christians who have converted from Islam risk violence, arrest or even death from their families or extremist groups if they openly express their faith. Unrecognised churches – especially those that evangelise – may face harassment from the authorities.
Despite Jordan’s reputation for tolerance and interfaith dialogue, Islamic extremists continue to pose a threat to Christians and other minorities. Additionally, the Gaza conflict has fuelled Islamic conservatism, support for Hamas, boycotts of international brands and greater Islamic visibility. This has led to more social pressure and distancing from Christians, even as the government maintains policies promoting religious tolerance
What changed this year?
[The persecution situation in Jordan remains much the same for followers of Jesus, whose lives can be difficult]. One Christian was killed and several Christian converts were reportedly forced to leave their homes or relocate within Jordan. The September 2024 parliamentary elections brought a historic win for the Islamic Action Front (IAF), reflecting rising Islamic conservatism in Jordan and solidarity with Gaza. However, after an alleged security plot, Jordan banned the Muslim Brotherhood in April 2025, casting uncertainty over the IAF’s future amid escalating regional tensions.
Who is most vulnerable to persecution?
Leaving Islam is not criminalised, but it is prohibited; converts risk referral to Sharia courts and losing their legal status and contracts, including their marriages. They face monitoring, harassment, exclusion from public-sector employment and social ostracisation. Christians who share their faith may experience pressure and detention.
What does Open doors do to help
In cooperation with local partners and churches, Open Doors supports the church in Jordan through training, relief and rehabilitation, research and prayer.
How can I be praying?
Under the leadership of King Abdallah, many believers in Jordan are able to worship openly. Thank God for this and ask Him to continue to make the monarchy aware of how the Jordanian church is a force for good in society.
Conversion from Islam can be quite risky in Jordan. Pray for those who have lost friends or family because they follow Jesus.
Pray that those called to share their faith can do so boldly and safely.