Escalating violence has displaced thousands of believers, forcing them into camps.
bottom"They attacked us because we worship God. They destroyed the church to stop the name of the Lord from being praised in this place."
– Pastor Samuel
The already fragile situation in the Central African Republic (CAR) continues to worsen, with conflict in neighbouring Sudan adding external pressure. Escalating violence in Sudan risks spilling into CAR, intensifying insecurity for vulnerable populations, especially Christians.
Internally, the collapse of state authority has fostered widespread lawlessness. Armed groups, corrupt officials, and jihadist elements exploit this vacuum, often targeting Christians. Churches have been looted or destroyed, and outspoken Christian leaders face threats, detention, or assassination.
Women and youth are particularly exposed to exploitation and abuse. Religious and ethnic violence by armed factions has forced thousands of Christians into displacement. Many live in overcrowded camps with little security or aid. In northern and remote regions, Muslim-background converts to Christianity face physical assault, forced isolation, and rejection by their families. These abuses go largely unpunished, reinforcing fear and a sense of helplessness. In CAR, Christian communities increasingly find themselves without protection—trapped between state failure and extremist hostility.
Rights violations against Christians are most severe in the northern and eastern regions of the Central African Republic where armed groups, hostile to Christianity, exert significant control. Christians of all denominations can be targeted by militants and extremist groups. Converts from Islam, living in Muslim-majority areas, face additional pressure from family and community.
– The Central African Republic has been embroiled in conflict for over a decade. Pray that God brings peace.
– For the victims of sexual violence. Ask God to bind up their wounds. Pray for complete healing from this horrific crime.
– That God comforts those who mourn the loss of loved ones.
Open Doors supports Christians in CAR through persecution-preparedness training and integration of cross-cultural converts. There are programmes in literacy, discipleship, psychosocial support, justice, and socio-economic opportunities.
