Türkiye

What does persecution look like in Türkiye?

Persecution in Türkiye is often driven by the notion that to be Turkish is to be Muslim. Anyone who openly practises a different faith, especially if they convert from Islam, is often regarded as betraying and dishonouring their family and their nation. This results in widespread discrimination. Converts from Islam are vulnerable to harassment, rejection and threats of violence from both family members and radical Islamic groups. Many feel compelled to hide their faith and lead a double life. However, others boldly and openly live out their faith, reflecting diversity both within the Turkish church as well as within Turkish society.

In general, Christians face limited access to state employment and can experience discrimination even in private employment. In areas with ethnic conflicts, historical Christian communities are caught in the middle and sometimes forced out of their homelands.

Who is most vulnerable to persecution?

Christian converts from a Muslim background from neighbouring countries are the most vulnerable. They face intense pressure from family, community and authorities. Historical Christian churches such as the Armenian, Greek Orthodox and Assyrian churches are treated as ‘foreign’. They face constant government monitoring and excessive bureaucracy. They also suffer from ongoing land theft and violence. Christians in inland areas face social hostility due to the stricter Islamic customs there. The growing number of Christian refugees from neighbouring countries also face high levels of hostility.

What has changed this year?

Persecution rose slightly in Türkiye this year, but the situation largely remains the same.

Despite the opening of a new Syriac Orthodox church in 2023 – the first since the Turkish Republic was established – historical Christian churches are still considered ‘foreign’. They face strict government control over basic matters such as choosing church leaders, and even church closures.

The government under President Erdoğan has continued to crack down on opposition since the attempted coup in 2016. It has severely restricted citizen and media freedom, and imprisoned journalists and politicians. This ongoing crackdown has heightened pressure on Turkish Christians.

The prolonged conflict in Türkiye's south east, primarily against the separatist group the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), may be changing. The PKK announced its dissolution in May, which could lead to a political solution. However, this ethnic tension has intensified the pressure on Syriac Christians (followers of Eastern Christianity who use the Syriac language) who are often caught in the middle of the conflict. They experience hostility and pressure from the government and from Kurdish clans who push them out of their homelands.

What does Open Doors do to help Christians in Türkiye?

Open Doors occasionally supports Persian-speaking Christian refugees in Türkiye. This is through trusted partners who provide persecution-preparedness training, resources and practical support. Open Doors also raises prayer support for believers in difficult situations and prayer in general for Türkiye.

How can you pray for Türkiye?

• Some politicians and leaders in Türkiye believe that all Turks should be Muslim. Pray for a softening of hearts and that people throughout the country will see the love and hope of Jesus in the lives of Christians.
• Praise God that so many Turkish believers can worship openly. Ask Him to bless their worship and empower them to carry out the Great Commission.
• When Muslims in Türkiye convert to follow Jesus, they can be shunned by their families and communities. Pray that these believers would find a sense of belonging and hope in the family of God.