Iran

Christians in Iran face intense persecution by the government. The country follows Sharia (Islamic) law that suppresses any religion that is contrary to Islam. Authorities monitor Christians while local Muslim leaders incite violence against Christians.

It is incredibly dangerous to own a Bible or to meet with other Christians. Government officials are responsible for a majority of arrests, targeting Christians who have converted from Islam. Often bail is unreasonably high, putting imprisoned Christians under financial pressure if they were to pay the fee.

Women who convert to Christianity are often seen as misguided and can be thrown in prison, forced to marry a Muslim man or lose custody of their children. Men who convert to Christianity are seen as wilfully making wrong decisions which can lead to physical abuse, long prison sentences or torture. Many Christians flee the country.