As Islamic State releases a video claiming to show the killing of 11 Christians in Nigeria, persecution watchdog Release International names Nigeria as a country of special concern for 2020.



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Other persecution hotspots for 2020 identified by Release International include Iran, Iraq, India and China. In each of these countries there is growing evidence of increasing violence against Christians.

Persecution has been increasing in Iran for the past four years. Release's Iranian partner describes a 'forced exodus' of Christians as the government acts to 'exterminate the Persian-speaking church'.

A national clampdown on Christianity has driven many Iranian church leaders overseas. And the restrictions are getting worse.

More than 100,000 refugees are expected to arrive in Iraqi Kurdistan in the coming year, driven out as a result of unrest to the south of Iraq and instability in neighbouring Syria.

Recent reports that Islamic State fighters are re-establishing a foothold in Iraq will increase the insecurity of the remaining Christians. Around 1.5 million Christians have already fled, leaving only some 300,000 in Iraq.

UK commitment

'The one bright spot on the horizon,' says Paul Robinson, 'is the commitment by UK prime minister Boris Johnson in his Christmas speech to support the growing number of Christians who are being persecuted for their faith.'

In his message, Mr Johnson declared: 'I want us to remember Christians around the world who are facing persecution. We stand with Christians everywhere, in solidarity, and will defend your right to practise your faith.'

Mr Johnson's government has reaffirmed its commitment to implement the recommendations of the recent report by the Bishop of Truro, which found that Christians were now the most persecuted minority around the world. Release International and others contributed to research for that report.

'Release is delighted that the UK government has pledged to put freedom of religion and belief at the centre of foreign policy,' says Paul Robinson. 'This could make a significant difference in the coming year, as persecution worldwide looks set to increase.' CR

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