36Ethiopia

Persecution in Ethiopia is complicated because it varies according to the type of Christian and where they live. Converts from Islam can face severe hostility, ranging from family rejection to physical violence. In Muslim-majority regions, converts can also suffer mob attacks, church burnings and discrimination. Ethiopia’s fragile security situation often intensifies this.

The Ethiopian Orthodox Church (EOC) has long influenced national identity. Its ultra-conservative factions often portray Protestant and Evangelical Christians as foreign and unpatriotic. This can lead to widespread stigmatisation and pressure, especially against believers who have left Orthodoxy for other Christian traditions. These believers can also face pressure from their Orthodox families and community.

Meet Jemal

“[The mobs] believed that after our property was destroyed, Christians would convert to Islam. They thought, when they have nothing to eat or drink, they will return to Islam. They did not want Christians to remain in the town. Their goal was to eliminate Christianity.”

Jemal* (name changed), an Ethiopian believer whose business was burned in mob attacks.

What does Open Doors do to help?

Open Doors works in Ethiopia to provide psychosocial care and spiritual resilience training, along with intergenerational ministry skills training and economic empowerment. It works to increase the Church’s influence and to seek justice for persecuted believers.