Pakistan

What does persecution look like in Pakistan?

As a minority in Pakistan, Christians are exposed to many challenges, from everyday discrimination to the threat of deadly violence.

Increasingly, Pakistan’s notorious blasphemy laws are used to intimidate Christians and other religious minorities. Often, they are used to target believers during unrelated feuds, such as disputes over land. Even an accusation can provoke mob violence against victims, as well as their families and the wider Christian community. Weak government and the growing influence of extreme Islamic groups means that Christians have limited protection from the law, adding to their vulnerability.

Most Christians descend from an ‘untouchable’ caste of sweepers and continue to face institutionalised discrimination. Many live in poverty, trapped in a cycle of bonded labour that entrenches their position on the margins of Pakistani society.

Christians from a Muslim background can face severe repercussions for choosing to follow Jesus. These threats come from families and radical Islamic groups who see conversion as a shameful act of betrayal.

Who is most vulnerable to persecution?

Most Christians live in Punjab province – where the most persecution takes place. However, the province of Sindh is notorious for being a hotspot for bonded labour, which affects many Christians. There are fewer Christians in Pakistan’s two other provinces, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, but their isolation means they are more exposed to violence.

Meet "Maliha"

"Jesus allowed these attacks to draw us closer to Him. In one evening, thousands of Christians cried out in the streets – some on their knees, some with their hands in the air, others with faces buried in each other’s shoulders. But all cried out to Jesus."

"Maliha" a university teacher among the Christians in Jaranwala who have experienced God’s love and power in the wake of attacks two years ago.

What has changed this year?

Little has changed this year; Pakistan maintains the same rank and score as previously. Life for many Christians remains bleak. Even though violent incidents are still relatively infrequent, this is largely because Christians have been forced underground. This speaks volumes about the dangers many face in Pakistan for following Jesus.

What does Open Doors do to help Christians in Pakistan?

Open Doors supports several partners in the region who work through churches to help persecuted believers. That work includes education, health and relief work, biblical literacy and leadership training, and livelihood projects.

How can you pray for Pakistan?

• Pakistan’s blasphemy laws continue to impact Christians. Pray for those accused unjustly of blasphemy and ask that God will help them avoid imprisonment or vigilante ‘justice’.
• Many Pakistani Christians are forced into menial jobs because of their identities as followers of Christ. Pray these believers will be sustained and know their value.
• Pakistan’s recent conflict with India left believers in both places filled with fear. Thank God that a ceasefire has held and pray that God’s perfect peace will reign.