20Algeria

Over the past three years, state pressure on Protestant Christians in Algeria has intensified to levels unseen in decades. Authorities have kept previously closed churches shut and ordered others to cease. As a result, all 47 churches under the Evangelical Protestant Church of Algeria (EPA) have halted their activities, and other independent churches have also stopped meeting due to fear of government action. These closures have strongly increased isolation among Algerian Christians, who are mainly converts from Islam.

In addition to church closures, more than 50 Christians have been prosecuted in recent years, with some receiving suspended prison sentences and fines. Converts continue to face strong opposition from families and communities, especially in rural, conservative and Arab regions where pressure and dangers are particularly acute.

Meet Kamelia

“The biggest challenge for me has always been my family situation. I often have to take my Bible lessons in hiding, which requires a lot of discretion, patience and faith.”

Kamelia* (not her real name), a believer from a Muslim background in Algeria.

What does Open Doors do to help?

In cooperation with local partners and churches, Open Doors supports believers in North Africa through leadership and discipleship training, trauma counselling, prayer and livelihood assistance.