33Tunisia

Christians comprise a tiny minority in Tunisia. Traditional churches such as the Roman Catholic and Orthodox churches, which largely serve foreign Christians, are officially recognised by the government and enjoy a relative amount of freedom, although public evangelism isn’t tolerated.

Tunisian Christians, however, aren’t officially recognised and do not have officially recognised church buildings. Tunisians who convert from Islam to Christianity face a level of hostility that forces many to keep their faith secret. This is especially true in the south, where the Muslim population is more conservative.

Gathering with other Christians brings risk of exposure due to monitoring by the Tunisian security services. If a believer’s faith is discovered, it can have a damaging impact on their daily life, including verbal and physical abuse, rejection by loved ones and job insecurity.

Meet Aizah

“I trust that God is with us as we see more hardship. We have resilience because we know who our Saviour is. I also rejoice as more hardship makes young people come to Him.”

Aizah (name changed) from North Africa, who comes from a Muslim background.

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.