5Yemen

Following Jesus in Yemen continues to be extremely dangerous. Yemeni society is strongly Islamic, conservative and tribal, and the tribal punishment for denouncing Islam can be death or banishment.

Most believers are Yemeni and come from Muslim backgrounds. As conversion from Islam is forbidden by Islamic and state law, Christians must keep their faith secret or risk severe repercussions from their families, the authorities or radical Islamic groups. This can include divorce, loss of custody of children, arrest, interrogation and even death.

The humanitarian crisis caused by Yemen’s 10-year civil war has also exacerbated the pressure on believers. While some relief aid is available, this is mostly distributed through local Muslim groups and mosques, which are alleged to be discriminating against anyone not considered a devout Muslim.

Meet Saleh

“If we sit at home and do nothing, we would be safe. But what kind of Christians would we be if we weren’t risking our life for others to know Life?”

Saleh (name changed), a Yemeni Christian who has started a house church network in the country.

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.