Yemen

What does persecution look like in Yemen?

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 cannot formally register with the authorities, and places of worship that are not 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.

Who is most vulnerable to persecution?

Christians throughout Yemen are in danger. In the south, fragmented governance and Islamic extremist groups put believers at risk. And in the Houthi-controlled north west regions – home to some 80% of the population – pressure is particularly severe. These areas are heavily policed, dissent is brutally repressed, and suspected Christian converts face surveillance, arrest and torture.

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" who encountered Jesus through a YouTube channel – at high personal cost.

What has changed this year?

Little has changed for Christians in Yemen. A coordinated, extremist-backed media campaign targeted Christian leaders, fuelling anti-Christian rhetoric and heightening the risk to believers’ lives. Combined with the worsening security situation, this has forced dozens of even informal fellowships to cease meeting. Given the overwhelming pressures, some secret believers are considering leaving Yemen. Yet, there are many who want to stay to serve the people despite the dangers and hardship.

But amid the huge challenges, there is good news, with clear signs of steady and encouraging growth – both in numbers and in faith. This includes stories of people exploring Christianity in response to the deepening faith of their loved ones.

What does Open Doors do to help Christians in Yemen?

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

How can you pray for Yemen?

• Yemen continues to be torn apart and wracked by violence. Pray that peace will finally come to this country.
• The small number of Yemeni believers is growing – but each lives with the daily risk of violence and death. Pray for courage and hope.
• Pray for the small, secret churches in Yemen. Ask God to help them find resources to be able to meet. Pray that underground church leaders would find strength and stamina to continue to serve God’s people.