On its world watch list published on its website, the group lamented the various forms of Christian persecution, defining it as “any hostility experienced as a result of identification with Christ.”
North Korea clinched the top spot, with Afghanistan, Somalia, Sudan, Pakistan, Eritrea, Libya, Iraq, Yemen, and Iran, in the top 10. Nigeria came 14th in the ranks as a result of what the organisation described as “ethnic cleansing based on religious affiliation,” which was said to be “becoming nearly common for Christians in a number of sub-Saharan African countries.”
It was also noted that “terrorism connected with extreme Islam continues to plague many African nations, resulting in increased persecution of Christians.”
Open Doors USA Chief Executive Officer (CEO), David Curry, also noted that “The overall numbers signal an increase in violence – especially against women,” stating that “it’s imperative we continue to advocate and call leaders to prioritise issues of religious freedom.”
and then