3Yemen

The dangers facing Christians in Yemen continue to escalate amid an unrelenting tide of conflict, extremism and economic collapse.

The indigenous Church consists mainly of converts from Islam, who must practise their faith in absolute secrecy. Discovery as a Christian can be deadly, because in Yemen, apostasy is legally punishable by death. Believers can also suffer in other ways, including divorce and separation from their children. Yemen’s fragmented, weak rule of law only increases the dangers facing Christians.

Non-Islamic groups can’t formally register with the authorities, and places of worship that aren’t Muslim haven’t been authorised for years. Most non-Yemeni Christians have fled the country because of the danger, with many registered churches either ransacked or destroyed. It means that Yemen’s native Christian population comprises mostly converts who must gather in secret and at enormous risk.

While all Yemenis suffer under one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, Christians are particularly vulnerable. Emergency aid is typically distributed through mosques to local Muslims, who discriminate against those not considered to be devout Muslims.

Meet Khaled

“God is opening doors, and many people are interested and want to learn more about Jesus. When I meet with people, I try to meet with them in public spaces to avoid any security issues.”

Khaled* (name changed), who encountered Jesus through a YouTube channel at high personal cost.

What does Open Doors do to help?

Open Doors supports the body of Christ in Yemen by raising prayer support, distributing relief aid, training believers and pastors, and offering shelter, protection and livelihood support to persecuted believers and their relatives.