35Democratic Republic of the Congo

In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), especially in the eastern region, Christians face severe persecution and violence, frequently from Islamist militants the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF). Allied with the Islamic State group, the ADF abduct and kill Christians and attack churches, leading to widespread terror, insecurity and displacement.

The M23 rebel group, reportedly supported by Rwanda, also targets Christian civilians, making the situation even worse. Converts from Islam and indigenous religions face pressure from their families to return to their old faiths.

Catholic church leaders who speak out for fair elections risk harassment. This mix of militant threats, family pressures and political interference creates a dangerous and fearful environment for Christians in Eastern Congo.

Meet Jerome

“Getting food is our main problem now that we’re displaced, because we don’t have a place to
farm. The situation is very bad. If life goes on like this … it’s hard to live.”

Jerome (name changed), an internally displaced person (IDP) in DRC.

What does Open Doors do to help?

Open Doors works through local partners to support Christians in the DRC through persecution survival training, economic empowerment projects and trauma care.