8 Sudan
Persecution Type
- Islamic oppression (Very strong)
- Dictatorial paranoia (Very strong)
- Organized corruption and crime (Strong)
- Clan oppression (Strong)
- Ethno-religious hostility (Strong)
Christian population
2,013,000
Government
Presidential Republic
Main Religion
Islam
Leader
Gen. Abd-al-Fatah al-Burhan Abd-al-Rahman
What does persecution look like in Sudan?
A devastating conflict that broke out in April 2023 is threatening to further undermine the positive steps made towards religious freedom following the ousting of Omar al-Bashir in 2019.
The crisis stems from a power struggle between the National Army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). More than 9,000 people have been killed and nearly 6 million displaced. More than 165 churches have closed and others have been destroyed. Churches have also reported human rights violations such as rape, kidnap and looting.
There are long-term concerns that the conflict will give Islamic extremists a renewed foothold in the country, undoing the reforms made by the transitional civilian government which gave more freedom to Christians, including abolishing the apostasy law and removing Islam as the state religion.
More immediately, those who convert to Christianity from Muslim backgrounds continue to face huge dangers. Some will even refrain from telling their children about Jesus, for fear they may inadvertently disclose their parents’ faith to the local community.
What changed this year?
Much has changed this year—and it’s not positive. “Christians in Sudan are especially vulnerable and on the receiving end in war times,” says an Open Doors research expert for East Africa. This has been borne out by the considerable number of churches either closed or damaged, and the many Christians who have suffered attacks. All of this comes alongside the oppression experienced by those who have chosen to leave Islam for Christianity.
How can I pray?
- For an end to the violence in Sudan and for provision for Christians who have been displaced
- For strength and protection for brave believers who risk so much to serve others during the conflict
- That the positive steps towards religious freedom will not be undone, but built upon.
