21Morocco

Despite the growing Western influence on Moroccan society, 99 per cent of the population are Muslim and the country remains socially conservative. This can make life challenging for the tiny Christian minority, particularly those who convert from Islam. They are likely to encounter severe pressure to recant their faith from their family and local community. Furthermore, they must meet in house churches because they can’t gain permission or official recognition to be able to gather in public.

Although conversion isn’t a punishable offence legally, converts risk being arrested and interrogated by the government, and the country’s strong and well-informed security services make it difficult for believers to express their faith. One reason for all this could be the fear of radical Muslim groups; by appeasing them, the authorities want to prevent any unrest.

The government’s paranoia explains why it is illegal to “shake the faith of a Muslim”, meaning that Christians who talk about their faith risk arrest and criminal prosecution. Distribution of Christian resources in Arabic (including Bibles) is also restricted. Even on social media, believers must be very careful in what they post.

Immigrant Christians are relatively free to meet and worship, although they’re often under surveillance and risk deportation if they’re found to be sharing their faith with Muslims.

Meet Aizah

“My father kicked me out of the house. He said that I betrayed our culture, that I was no longer his daughter. It broke my heart. He made me feel a bad girl.”

Aizah (name changed) from North Africa.

What does Open Doors do to help?

Open Doors works with local partners and churches in North Africa to provide leadership and discipleship training, livelihood support, legal aid, trauma counselling, Bibles and pastoral care.