Egypt’s Christians Endure Discrimination and Persecution Despite Laws

In the heart of Egypt, where history’s echoes resound through ancient wonders, Christians face a reality marked by persistent challenges and pressures. Despite being the largest Christian community in the Middle East, comprising about 10% of Egypt’s 111 million people, Christians encounter significant persecution from the Muslim majority, a situation that belies the constitutional guarantee of religious freedom.

ADF International’s legal counsel, Lizzie Francis Brink, visited Egypt to delve into the issues faced by the Christian community there. She shared insights on the systemic discrimination Christians endure, which she noted does not primarily originate from government actions, but from societal pressures.

Brink highlighted, “Among the persecuted are Egypt’s Christians, who live in a land of ancient wonders and rich history—yet face daily discrimination, harsh restrictions, and constant pressure to hide their faith. Despite Egypt’s status as a cultural and historical giant in Africa, it remains an ongoing struggle for many believers.”

The challenges are notably severe in Egypt’s southern regions, where Islamic extremist groups like the Salafi al-Nour party wield influence despite official bans. In these areas, Christians face a gamut of adversities, ranging from employment discrimination and school bullying to more severe threats such as sexual violence and bombings, with little intervention from authorities.

For those who convert from Islam to Christianity, the difficulties intensify. The Egyptian state imposes significant barriers to officially changing one’s religion from Islam, and converts risk arrest under blasphemy laws and social ostracism.

A poignant example is the case of Abdulbaqi Abdo, a Yemeni convert who was arrested in 2021. Charged with “joining a terrorist group with knowledge of its purposes” and “contempt of the Islamic religion,” his actual offense was participating in a Facebook group for Muslim converts. His ordeal in Egypt’s prison system included restricted family and legal visits, prompting him to announce a hunger strike last year.

With advocacy from ADF International, Abdo’s plight was brought before the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, leading to his release in January. Although he has since left Egypt, ADF continues to support him as his case remains unresolved.

During her March visit, Brink met with Egyptian Christians and legal advocates, commending their bravery and perseverance. She remarked, “Egypt’s Christians live under constant pressure—from discriminatory laws, violent attacks, and systemic injustice. Despite constitutional promises and international treaties meant to protect religious freedom, the reality presents critical challenges.”

Brink emphasized the resilience displayed by the Christian community in Egypt, noting, “Yet, in the face of such hardship, the courage and resilience of Egypt’s Christian community are a powerful testament to the enduring hope of the Gospel. During my trip, I witnessed that hope firsthand.”