Tunisia

How many Christians are there in Tunisia?

There are 11.8 million people living in Tunisia – Christians are a very tiny minority, numbering just over 23,000. They make up 0.2 per cent of the population.

Why are Christians persecuted in Tunisia?

Tunisia is a strongly Islamic society. While the more urban north of the country tends to follow a more moderate form of Islam, the more rural south remains conservative. There is a noticeable growing influence of radical Islamic teachings, and Islamic militants spread fear throughout the country.

What’s life like for Christians in Tunisia?

A journalist who has investigated the situation of Tunisian Christians says: “Tunisian Christians face discrimination and targeting that is often obscure and hidden to the public eye. It affects their day-to-day lives. Because of their Christian identities, many experience job insecurity, abandonment from family, friends and even fiancés; they are victims of verbal, mental and physical abuse.”

Tunisian believers all come from Muslim backgrounds, and will often keep their faith hidden. If their faith is discovered, they may lose their jobs, be rejected by family and friends, and face verbal and physical abuse.

How can I help Christians in Tunisia

Please keep praying for your brothers and sisters in Tunisia. Your gifts and prayers make an enormous difference to those following Jesus no matter the cost.

Working with local partners and churches, Open Doors supports the church in North Africa through training, literature distribution, socio-economic development and advocacy support. 

Is it getting harder to be a Christian in Tunisia?

The violence against Christians in Tunisia has risen dramatically, causing the country to rise three places on the Open Doors World Watch List, from number 37 in 2019 to number 34 in 2020.