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Image courtesy of CSW-UKSUDAN | Policy Denying New Permits to Build Churches Reaffirmed    7.16.14

The Sudanese Minister for Guidance and Religious Endowments reaffirmed July 12 that the government will not issue permits for the building of new churches... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCHINA | Two Nanle Church Detainees Released; Pastor Sentenced    7.9.14

Two more detainees from Nanle County Christian Church, Henan Province, who were detained Nov. 15, 2013, were released July 5... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCAR | Seleka Attack Church Compound Sheltering Displaced Civilians    7.8.14

At least 20 people were killed and 22 injured when Seleka fighters and armed Muslim civilians attacked St. Joseph's Catholic Cathedral in Bambari City... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKIRAN | Iranian Security Forces Arrest Christian Converts    7.8.14

Iranian Christians Mohammad Roghangir, Suroush Saraie and Pastor Matthias Haghnejad were arrested by security forces at the pastor’s home in Bandar-Anzali... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCUBA | Government Demolishes House Church    7.4.14

Cuban government agents, including state security and Cuban Communist Party officials, destroyed the home of Pastor Esmir Torreblanca in the eastern city... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCHINA | Pastor Zhang Shaojie Sentenced to 12 Years    7.4.14

Pastor Zhang Shaojie of Nanle Country Christian Church, Henan Province, was sentenced to 12 years in prison for fraud... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKSUDAN | Authorities Demolish Church Building, Mosque Left Standing    7.2.14

Sudanese authorities demolished the Church of Christ in Thiba Al Hamyida, North Khartoum on June 30, after giving the church’s leaders 24 hour notice... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKLAOS | Deceased Christian’s Friend Pressured to Recant     7.2.14

On June 29, days after the authorities accused five Christians in Savannakhet province, Laos, of murdering Christian convert Mrs. Chan, the friend who introduced Chan to the Christian faith was pressured to recant... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKNIGERIA | Breakthrough in Chibok Abductions After Week Marked by Violence    7.1.14

The Nigerian military announced the arrest of a key figure in the abduction of over 200 girls from a school in Chibok, southern Borno State on April 14 and the disruption of a Boko Haram terrorist cell... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKLAOS | Funeral Disrupted, Christians Charged With Murder     6.30.14

Five Christians in Savannakhet province, Laos, have been accused of the murder of a Christian convert... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKSUDAN | Meriam Ibrahim, Family Released on Bail     6.27.14

Meriam Ibrahim and her family were released from police custody on bail June 26 at 10 p.m. local time... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKERITREA | UN Establishes Commission of Inquiry    6.27.14

Human Rights Concern Eritrea and CSW warmly welcome the establishment of an UN Commission of Inquiry on the human rights situation... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKSUDAN | Meriam Ibrahim to be Released on Bail    6.26.14

CSW was informed Meriam Ibrahim and her family are to be released from police custody on bail today... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKIRAN | Pastor Irani Returned to Prison    6.26.14

CSW has learned Pastor Behnam Irani, the Church of Iran leader who was assaulted and transferred to a previously unknown location on June 7, has been returned to Ghezal Hesar Prison... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKVIETNAM | Christian Students Beaten, Temporarily Detained    6.25.14

Seventy-six Christians from a Mennonite church in Binh Duong Province, just north of Ho Chi Minh City, were kicked, punched and detained by police... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKSUDAN | Meriam Ibrahim Detained    6.25.14

Meriam Ibrahim, the Sudanese Christian woman whose sentences of death for apostasy and 100 lashes for adultery were quashed on June 23, is still being detained by the Sudanese authorities... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCUBA | Rev. Lleonart Barroso Temporarily Detained, Computer Confiscated    6.24.14

Religious freedom activists Rev. Mario Felix Lleonart Barroso and his wife Yoaxis Marcheco Suarez were temporarily detained by Cuban police... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKPAKISTAN | CSW Welcomes Judgment for Better Protection for Minorities    6.24.14

CSW welcomes the judgment of the Apex Court in Pakistan, handed down June 19, which has ruled in favor of protecting the freedom of Pakistan’s religious minorities... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKSUDAN | Meriam Ibrahim Released, Lawyers Receive Death Threats    6.23.14

CSW confirms the appeal court reviewing the case of Meriam Ibrahim, the Sudanese Christian woman who was sentenced to death for apostasy and 100 lashes for adultery on May 11, has quashed the original verdict, ordered her release, recognized her marriage... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCHINA | Three Nanle Church Members Released, Six Still Detained     6.19.14

Three members of Nanle County Christian Church detained since November 2013 were released on June 11, according to reports... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKMEXICO | Displaced Protestants Seek Government Help    6.16.14

A group of forcibly displaced Protestant Christians continue to call on Mexican government officials to address their case one year after their attempt to return home was met with extreme violence... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKNIGERIA | Action Requested to End “Boko Haram-Led Pogroms"     6.12.14

Concerned leaders of ethnic nationalities of Borno South Senatorial District have issued a statement highlighting the “Boko Haram-led pogroms”... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKBURMA | Religious Conversion Law Threatens Religious Freedom     6.12.14

Over 80 organizations from civil society worldwide call on Burma to scrap proposed legislation that would unlawfully restrict the right to freely choose a religion... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKKENYA | Chairman of the Council of Imams and Preachers Murdered     6.12.14

Sheikh Mohammed Idris, chairman of the Council of Imams and Preachers and previous leader of Mombasa's Sakina Mosque, was assassinated by unknown gunmen ... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKIRAN | Pastor Irani Beaten In Prison, Taken to Unknown Location    6.9.14

CSW has learned that Pastor Behnam Irani, who was sentenced in 2011 to six years imprisonment on political charges, was beaten in prison and transferred... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKBURMA | Organizations Worldwide Call For Peace Action on Anniversary    6.9.14

Three years ago today, the Burma Army broke a 17-year ceasefire with the Kachin Independence Army and unleashed a major new military offensive... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKNEPAL | CSW Concerned By Calls to Ban Religious Conversions    6.5.14

CSW is concerned by reports that Bhagat Singh Koshiyari, the Vice Chairman of the Indian Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has called for a total legal ban on conversions from one faith to another... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKNIGERIA | Boko Haram Targets Christian Communities     6.4.14

Christian communities in the Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State, northeast Nigeria are under sustained attack from the Islamist terror group, Boko Haram... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCHINA | CSW Calls on Chinese Government to Respect Citizens' Rights    6.2.14

Ahead of the 25th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square massacre, CSW calls upon the Chinese government to respect the rights of its citizens... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCAR | Foreign Jihadis Implicated in Catholic Church Attack     5.30.14

Foreign jihadis have been implicated in an attack on Our Lady Fatima Catholic Church in the Km 5 district of Bangui, Central African Republic (CAR), on May 28 that left 18 people dead... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKNIGERIA | Over 70 Dead in Boko Haram Attacks     5.29.14

Over 70 people died this week in a series of attacks by members of the Islamist terror group Boko Haram on towns and villages in Borno and Yobe States... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKSUDAN | Meriam Yahia Ibrahim Gives Birth in Prison     5.27.14

Imprisoned Sudanese Christian Meriam Yahia Ibrahim gave birth to a baby girl five days early... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKERITREA | Anniversary of Government Crackdown on Churches Marked     5.23.14

CSW joined members of the Eritrean diaspora, the British Orthodox Church and four NGOs from the United Kingdom (UK) and Ireland May 22 in a protest vigil outside the Eritrean Embassy in London marking the 12th anniversary ... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKINDIA | Incoming Government Urged to Promote Freedom of Religion, Belief     5.23.14

CSW urges the incoming Indian government to adopt measures to ensure the promotion of Freedom of Religion or Belief for India’s diverse communities... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKSUDAN | Lawyers Appeal Meriam Ibrahim’s Death Sentence     5.22.14

CSW has learned that Meriam Yahia Ibrahim’s lawyers have lodged an appeal against the Public Order Court’s decision on May 11 to sentence Ibrahim to death... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKNIGERIA | Borno Attacks Following Jos Bombings     5.21.14

Boko Haram gunmen attacked two villages in southern Borno State on May 21, killing over 40 people... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKLAOS | Christians Still Detained In Savannakhet     5.20.14

Multiple sources informed CSW that 11 Christians detained in Savannakhet Province on May 11 remain in prison after being arrested for meeting in an unauthorized... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKMEXICO | “Ongoing, Systematic” Religious Freedom Violations in Chiapas     5.19.14

CSW has obtained firsthand evidence of ongoing and systematic large-scale violations of religious freedom in the state of Chiapas, Mexico, following a fact-finding... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCHINA | Briefing Explores Tensions Behind Zhejiang Church Demolitions     5.16.14

A new briefing by CSW analyzes the context and possible reasons behind the demolition of churches and removal of religious symbols in Zhejiang, China and recommends consistent dialogue... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKSUDAN | Court Confirms Pregnant Woman’s Death Sentence     5.15.14

CSW learned that the Public Order Court in El Haj Yousif Khartoum, Sudan, confirmed Meriam Yahia Ibrahim’s death sentence for apostasy after she refused... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKIRAN | Christian Prisoners Beaten, Tortured     5.14.14

CSW was informed that Iranian Christian Silas Rabbani reported being tortured while in Gohardasht prison, while Amin Khaki, also a Christian... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKSUDAN | Pregnant Sudanese Woman Sentenced to Death for Apostasy     5.13.14

Meriam Yahia Ibrahim, a Christian mother in late term pregnancy, was sentenced to death for apostasy and 100 lashes for adultery by the Public Order Court... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKNIGERIA | Violence Erupts in Southern Kaduna     5.12.14

Violence erupted May 12 in Kachia Town, headquarters of Kachia Local Government Area in southern Kaduna, despite the imposition of a 24-hour curfew May 11 by the Kaduna State government... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKNIGERIA | Al-Azhar Mosque Condemns Abduction of School Girls     5.8.14

Sunni Islam's foremost authority, Egypt’s Al-Azhar Mosque, has condemned the activities of Boko Haram as un-Islamic and demanded the immediate release of at least 180 school girls abducted by the group... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKIRAN | Shahin Lahouti Returned to Prison     5.6.14

CSW has learned that musician Shahin Lahouti, a convert to Christianity, has been returned to prison after being released in December 2013... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKMEXICO | Village Authorities Cut Water Supply to Protestant Families     4.29.14

Local authorities in the village of Union Juarez, in the municipality of La Trinitaria, Mexico, met April 28 in a move to cut the water supply to additional families belonging to the Mount Tabor Evangelical Church... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCHINA | New Trial Date for Pastor, Church Still Blocked     4.25.14

A new date of April 29 was set for the trial of Chinese Pastor Zhang Shaojie, who is accused of fraud and “gathering a crowd to disrupt public order”... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKIRAN | Farshid Fathi Among Beaten Prisoners     4.23.14

Evangelical church leader Farshid Fathi was among 30 prisoners who suffered injuries when guards and security agents assaulted inmates in Evin Prison, one of Iran’s most notorious jails... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKNIGERIA | Ongoing Concerns for Missing School Girls    4.17.14

There are ongoing concerns for the safety of 129 female students kidnapped from their school in Chibok in Borno State on April 14 by members of the Islamist terrorist... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCHINA | Pastor Zhang Shaojie’s Trial Suspended Indefinitely    4.17.14

The trial of Chinese Pastor Zhang Shaojie began April 10 in Nanle County, Henan Province, but court proceedings were later suspended indefinitely... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKNIGERIA | Kaduna Church Hosts Local Peace Building Event    4.14.14

An Evangelical Church Winning All Church in Tudun Nupawa, Kaduna in Northern Nigeria held a “Friends Day Service” on Sun., April 13 as part of peace-building efforts... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKIRAN | Concerns Raised Over Treatment of Baha’i Community     4.11.14

Ayatollah Abdol-Hamid Masoumi-Tehrani, a senior Shi'a cleric, has given the Baha’i International Community a symbolic gift and raised concerns over... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKSYRIA | Elderly Dutch Priest Murdered     4.8.14

Father Frans van der Lugt, an elderly Jesuit priest, was murdered in the city of Homs April 7. There are conflicting reports on the circumstances surrounding... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKNIGERIA | 20 Dead in Mosque Attack     4.7.14

Around 20 people may have died when gunmen attacked a mosque in Buni Gari village in Yobe State, northeastern Nigeria, during the early hours of April 5... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCHINA | Over 20 Protestors Beaten, Detained     4.4.14

More than half of the 40-plus supporters who have gathered in Heilongjiang Province in Northeast China to protest the detention of three human rights lawyers have been beaten... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKNIGERIA | Kafanchan Curfew Following Protests     4.3.14

A 24-hour curfew was imposed on Kafanchan, a major town in southern Kaduna State, on April 2 after local youth reacted angrily to the discovery by law enforcement agents of weaponry in a truck... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKIRAN | Prison Sentences for Six Christians Upheld     4.3.14

Six members of a group of eight Christians from Shiraz, who were sentenced to various prison terms last year, had their prison sentences upheld... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKPAKISTAN | Sawan Masih Appeals Blasphemy Death Sentence     4.2.14

Sawan Masih, a Pakistani Christian man convicted of blasphemy charges and sentenced to death on March 27, filed an appeal against his conviction in the Lahore... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCHINA | Human Rights Lawyers Detained Under Cult Charges     3.28.14

Three Chinese human rights lawyers and an unknown number of other citizens remain in detention after being taken away by police on March 21 while visiting... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKNORTH KOREA | UN Human Rights Council Calls for Security Council Action     3.28.14

CSW welcomes the strong resolution on North Korea, passed March 28 by the United Nations Human Rights Council including a request for the UN Security to take action on North Korea's human... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKKENYA | Six Dead in Gun Attack on Church Near Mombasa     3.24.14

The death toll in a gun attack on March 23 on the Joy in Jesus Christ Church in Likoni, near the Kenyan port city of Mombasa, has risen to six... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKPAKISTAN | Group Captain Cecil Chaudhry Posthumously Honored     3.24.14

Group Captain (Rtd) Cecil Chaudhry was posthumously awarded the President's Award for Pride of Performance, one of the highest civil awards in Pakistan, by the President of Pakistan... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCAR | CSW Urges Peacekeeping Force on Seleka Coup Anniversary     3.24.14

On the anniversary of the coup that brought the Seleka coalition to power in the Central African Republic (CAR), CSW is urging UN member states to ensure the Secretary General’s proposal for a significant increase in the number of peacekeepers... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKSYRIA | Abducted Maaloula Nuns Released in Prisoner Exchange     3.10.14

Thirteen Greek Orthodox nuns and their three helpers, who had been held by Syrian rebel forces since December 2013, were released in exchange for female... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKTURKEY | Malatya Case Suspects Released Under New Law     3.8.14

Five suspects on trial for torturing and killing three Christians in Malatya, Turkey in April 2007, were released on bail March 7, according to local news reports... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKMEXICO | Reparations Called for Victims of Religious Freedom Violations     3.7.14

CSW welcomes the report of the Oaxaca State Ombudsman’s Office, dated Jan. 28 but released last week, which confirmed serious religious freedom violations in the municipality of San Juan Ozolotepec... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKIRAN | Eight Christians Arrested, Interrogated     3.7.14

CSW has been informed that eight Iranian Christians were arrested and interrogated by security forces... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKINDONESIA | CSW Highlights Rising Religious Intolerance     3.4.14

Rising religious intolerance in Indonesia was highlighted at the European Parliament March 4 as CSW presented its new report... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKNIGERIA | Boko Haram Attacks Villages, Town in Adamawa State     2.27.14

Suspected Boko Haram gunmen attacked villages and a town in the Madagali and Michika Local Government Areas of Adamawa State in northeast Nigeria on Feb. 26... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKINDIA | CSW Briefing Outlines Religious Freedom Concerns     2.27.14

As India approaches its general election, expected to take place in May, CSW released a new briefing setting out an agenda of religious freedom concerns... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKMEXICO | Families Have Water, Electricity Disconnected     2.27.14

Twenty-five Protestant families had their water and electricity supplies disconnected and have effectively been put under house arrest in Mexico because of their refusal to participate in Traditionalist Catholic... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCUBA | NGOS Urge EU to Adopt Benchmarks on Human Rights     2.26.14

The Europe Cuba Network, a group of 19 European non-governmental organizations, including CSW, has issued a statement calling on the European Union to adopt red-lines and clear benchmarks to measure progress in the area of human rights... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKNIGERIA | College Students Killed in Boko Haram Attack     2.26.14

At least 40 students were killed when suspected members of the Islamist terror group, Boko Haram, attacked the Federal Government College Buni-Yadi in Yobe State... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCHINA | Henan Pastor’s Trial Date Postponed Indefinitely     2.25.14

Chinese Pastor Zhang Shaojie’s trial date, which had been set for Feb. 21, has been ‘indefinitely postponed’, according to lawyers quoted by China Aid... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKTANZANIA | Two Churches, Restaurant Bombed in Zanzibar     2.25.14

Bomb attacks on the island of Zanzibar targeted Christ Church Anglican Cathedral and a well-known restaurant on Feb. 24, and an Evangelistic Assemblies of God Tanzania church... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKINDONESIA | Interfaith Delegation Starts Week of Advocacy     2.24.14

An interfaith delegation from Indonesia, co-hosted by CSW and the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community UK, has begun a week of advocacy in the UK to coincide with this week’s launch of CSW’s new report... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKIRAN | Pastor Irani Recovering Following Operation     2.24.14

CSW has learned that Pastor Behnam Irani underwent surgery on Feb. 22 and is now recovering in Shahid Madani Hospital in Karaj... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKSUDAN | Authorities Destroy Church Building, Confiscate Land     2.21.14

Sudanese authorities demolished and confiscated a Sudanese Church of Christ building in the Ombada area of Omdurman on Feb. 17, according to reports... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKNIGERIA | At Least 200 Killed in Terrorist Violence     2.18.14

At least 200 people were killed in Borno and Adamawa States in the north east of Nigeria in a series of terrorist attacks on rural areas last week... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKNORTH KOREA | CSW Welcomes UN Inquiry’s Report, Urges Action     2.17.14

CSW welcomes the report of the United Nations Commission of Inquiry on human rights in North Korea, released today, and the inquiry’s conclusion that the regime in North Korea is committing crimes against humanity... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCHINA | Christians Remain Detained Three Weeks After Raid     2.14.14

Protestant Pastor Xu Yonghai and 11 members of his church remain in detention three weeks after the Holy Love Fellowship house church was raided on Jan. 24... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKINDONESIA | New Report Warns of Growing Religious Intolerance     2.14.14

CSW’s new report on Indonesia, which will be launched Feb. 25 in the UK Parliament, warns: “Religious intolerance is no longer confined to areas such as West Java and Aceh, known to be particularly conservative, nor is it confined to Christians... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKPAKISTAN | Militants Issue Death Threats in Murder Case     2.11.14

CSW has received deeply concerning reports that several key people involved in the case against four militants accused of assassinating Shahbaz Bhatti... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKUSA | CSW to Testify Before US House Committee     2.11.14

CSW will give evidence before the US House of Representatives Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health, Global Human Rights, and International Organizations on the persecution of Christians... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKNIGERIA | Boko Haram Kills Muslim Cleric, 11 Christians     2.3.14

A Muslim cleric from Kaduna State, his wife and child, and 11 Christians in Adamawa State, were murdered in separate attacks last weekend by members of the Islamist terror group Boko Haram... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKNIGERIA | Entire Family Murdered In Village Attack     1.31.14

A family of seven was murdered when armed Fulani tribesmen attacked a village in southern Kaduna State on Jan. 30... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKMEXICO | Government Urged To Intervene In Religious Conflicts     1.31.14

CSW is calling on the Mexican government to intervene in the religious conflicts that result in the forcible displacement of communities in the state of Chiapas... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKNIGERIA | 138 Killed in Weekend Terror Attacks     1.30.14

At least 138 people died on Jan. 26 in attacks by members of the Islamist terror group Boko Haram on villages in Adamawa and Borno States in north east Nigeria... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKINDONESIA | Atheist Released From Prison     1.30.14

Indonesian atheist Alexander Aan, who was sentenced to 2 ½ years’ imprisonment on June 15, 2012 under the nation’s blasphemy laws for publicly declaring himself an atheist on Facebook... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC | Pastor, Son Killed as Violence Erupts     1.29.14

Pastor Kongbo, treasurer of the Union des Eglises Baptistes, was killed Jan. 28 along with his son at their home by Seleka forces as violence erupted in the northern suburbs of the Central African Republic’s capital city Bangui... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKIRAN | Davoud Alijani Released Early From Prison     1.29.14

Davoud Alijani, a leader in the Assemblies of God church in Ahwaz, was released from Karoon Prison on Jan. 13, 20 days before his sentence was due to be completed... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCUBA | Pastor Under House Arrest Following Detention     1.27.14

Rev. Mario Felix Lleonart Barroso, a Baptist pastor, was arrested and detained by political police and state security agents in central Cuba on Jan. 25... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCHINA | Trial Postponed For Protestant Pastor     1.27.14

CSW has learned the trial date for detained Protestant Pastor Zhang Shaojie, originally scheduled for Jan. 28, has been rescheduled for Feb. 12... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKEGYPT | CSW Encourages Constitutional Human Rights Provisions     1.24.14

As Egyptians prepare to celebrate the third anniversary of the 25 January Revolution, CSW welcomes provisions in the new constitution upholding equal citizenship and international human rights statutes... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC | UN Human Rights Council to Discuss Killings     1.16.14

The UN Human Rights Council has announced it will be holding a special session on Jan. 20 to discuss the human rights situation in the Central African Republic... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCHINA | Pastor Zhang Shaojie Finally Charged, Allowed Access to Lawyer     1.16.14

On Jan. 15, Protestant Pastor Zhang Shaojie’s lawyer was able to visit him, two months after he was first detained... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKVIETNAM | Campaign Calls for ‘Specific Milestones’ to End Torture     1.16.14

CSW welcomes the launch today of a report by the Campaign to Abolish Torture in Vietnam... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKEGYPT | Prayer Called for as Egyptians Vote in Referendum     1.15.14

As Egyptians began two days of voting in a referendum on a new constitution, the General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the UK issued a call for three days of prayer for peace... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCUBA | Religious Freedom Violations Increased in 2013     1.9.14

CSW has renewed its call for Cuban leader Raul Castro to ensure that significant improvements are made in upholding religious freedom in 2014. Research showed a steady increase... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKSUDAN | Three Years Pass with No Abyei Official Referendum     1.8.14

CSW is echoing the plea of an Abyei Elder for the future of the region not to be forgotten, ahead of the third anniversary of the delayed referendum... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCHINA | Harassment of Lawyers, Church Members Christmas Week     1.3.14

Church members, lawyers and Christians visiting the family of detained Protestant Pastor Zhang Shaojie were beaten, harassed and detained by “hired thugs”, police and government agencies in December... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKIRAN | Pastor Irani’s Home Among Four Raided     12.20.13

Security forces raided the homes of four Christians in Karaj, Iran on Dec. 15, including that of Kristina Irani, the wife of imprisoned Church of Iran pastor Behnam Irani... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCHINA | Lawyers Stage Hunger Strike     12.12.13

Fifteen lawyers representing detained Protestant Pastor Zhang Shaojie and members of his church in Nanle County, Henan Province are staging a hunger strike... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKINDIA | CSW Deplores Crackdown on Peaceful Protest     12.12.13

CSW deplores the heavy-handed manner in which police broke up a peaceful demonstration by thousands of people in New Delhi who were calling for an end to the statutory discrimination... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC | Hundreds Killed After Fighting Breaks Out     12.11.13

Local sources are reporting that almost 1,000 people have been killed in the last week after fighting broke out between the Seleka rebel coalition and anti-Balaka... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCUBA | Pastor Barred From Leaving Country     12.11.13

A Cuban pastor was barred by government officials from leaving the country last month despite having a valid passport and visa... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKMEXICO | Report Finds Increase in Religious Freedom Violations     12.9.13

CSW is marking Human Rights Day on Dec. 10 with the release of its latest report on freedom of religion or belief in Mexico, which finds a “significant” increase in religious freedom violations... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKVIETNAM | Revised Constitution Fails to Answer Calls for Reform     12.6.13

A revised constitution for Vietnam, which was passed by a vote of almost 98% on Nov. 28, has disappointed religious leaders, intellectuals, activists and former officials hoping for political reform... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKSYRIA | Conflicting Reports Concerning Missing Nuns     12.4.13

CSW is concerned for the welfare of 12 nuns and three young women who were taken away from their convent in a village 37 miles north of the Syrian capital... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKGLOBAL | CSW Welcomes Debate on the Persecution of Christians     12.4.13

CSW warmly welcomes the three-hour debate on Dec. 3 in the House of Commons on the persecution of Christians in the 21st century, and the calls made by several Members of Parliament... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKERITREA | Diaspora Petitions U.S. Government on Human Rights     12.3.13

Members of the Eritrean diaspora have drafted a petition to the U.S. House and Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittees on African Affairs calling for greater attention... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCHINA | Prime Minister Asked to Raise Religious Freedom on Visit     12.2.13

CSW has written to British Prime Minister David Cameron, urging him to ensure that freedom of religion or belief is a specific feature of his visit to China... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCHINA | Lawyers Prevented From Meeting Detainees     11.29.13

Lawyers representing Protestant Pastor Zhang Shaojie and members of his church have encountered various obstacles that have prevented them from meeting with their clients, who were detained... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKSUDAN | Concerns Over Religious Freedom Grow as Lawyer Flees     11.28.13

CSW is concerned by the continuing deterioration in freedom of religion and belief in Sudan, following reports that a Sudanese lawyer and religious freedom advocate has fled the country... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCHINA | Christians Protest Pastor’s Detention     11.22.13

Over 100 relatives, church members and supporters of Pastor Zhang Shaojie, a Protestant pastor, joined in a protest on Nov. 18 in Henan Province, China, to call for his release from prison... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKNIGERIA | U.S. Designates Boko Haram Terrorist Organization     11.14.13

CSW welcomes yesterday’s decision by the U.S. State Department to formally designate Nigerian Islamist group Boko Haram, and its off-shoot organization Ansaru, as a “foreign terrorist organization”... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKMEXICO | Four Protestant Christians Imprisoned, Tortured     11.11.13

CSW is calling on the Mexican government to prosecute local officials responsible for the unjust imprisonment and torture of four protestant Christians... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKSRI LANKA | Government Heads Should Press for Religious Freedom     11.8.13

One week before the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Colombo, Sri Lanka, CSW is urging Commonwealth leaders to use this opportunity to raise pressing human rights concerns with Sri Lanka... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKIRAN | Mostafa Bordbar Released From Prison     11.8.13

Iranian Christian Mostafa Bordbar was released from prison on Nov. 3, following a successful appeal against the 10 year prison sentence he received on July 31... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKSUDAN | CSW Calls for Official Abyei Referendum     11.7.13

CSW is calling on the international community to facilitate and guarantee an official referendum on Abyei’s future after an unofficial plebiscite resulted... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKIRAN | Lashing Sentences Carried Out     10.31.13

Two of the four members of the Church of Iran denomination sentenced to 80 lashes for taking wine during a communion service were lashed on Oct. 30... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKVIETNAM | Catholics Sentenced Despite Community Protests     10.31.13

Two Vietnamese Catholics, whose arrest sparked mass protests in My Yen parish, Nghe An Province last month, were sentenced to six and seven months’ imprisonment, respectively, on Oct. 23... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCOLOMBIA | FARC Document Shows Extent of Restrictions     10.29.13

A document published by the 32nd Front of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia – Army of the People (FARC-EP) in July illustrates the degree of repression the guerrilla group exercises over populations under its control... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKERITREA | Rapporteur Highlights Violations During Historic Address     10.25.13

In her first "interactive dialogue" with the UN General Assembly on Oct. 24, the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Eritrea urged the Eritrean government to ensure that its people... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCUBA | Church Under Attack From Government     10.25.13

CSW condemns attempts by Cuban State Security and Communist Party officials to forcibly confiscate a property which serves as the national headquarters... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKIRAN | Four Christians Sentenced to 80 Lashes     10.23.13

A court in the Iranian city of Rasht has sentenced four members of the Church of Iran denomination to 80 lashes each for drinking wine during a communion... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKNORTH KOREA | CSW to Testify Before Commission of Inquiry     10.21.13

CSW will join North Korean defectors to testify before the UN Commission of Inquiry on Human Rights in North Korea, when it holds its latest public hearing... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKEGYPT | Four Killed In Wedding Attack     10.21.13

Four people, including an eight-year old girl, died after masked gunmen opened fire on a wedding in Giza on Oct. 20... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKVIETNAM | Religious Leaders Issue Statement Criticizing Regulations     10.14.13

Representatives from various religious groups in Vietnam issued a statement on Oct. 4 accusing the Vietnamese government of attempting to destroy religions... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKBURMA | CSW Calls on UN General Assembly to Address Violations     10.10.13

CSW today urged the United Nations General Assembly to focus on continuing violations of human rights, including abuses of freedom of religion or belief... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKNIGERIA | CSW Expresses Condolences Following Death of Chief     10.10.13

Christian Solidarity Worldwide is saddened to learn of the death of Chief Solomon Daushep Lar, chairman of CSW-Nigeria’s Board of Trustees... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCHINA | Christian Rights Activist Released From Prison     10.9.13

Chinese human rights lawyer, Ni Yulan, was released from prison on Oct. 5 after completing a two-and-a-half year sentence... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKEGYPT | CSW Calls On Government to Secure Justice For Victims     10.9.13

As Coptic Orthodox communities around the world on Oct. 9 commemorate the second anniversary of what has become known as the Maspero Massacre, CSW is calling on Egypt’s interim government... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKIRAN | CSW Expresses Concern Over Woman’s Health     10.4.13

Christian Solidarity Worldwide is extremely concerned to learn of a serious deterioration in the health of a 35-year-old Iranian Christian woman... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKNORTH KOREA | Defectors to Testify at UK Parliament Hearing     10.4.13

Three North Korean defectors will testify at a hearing on human rights in North Korea hosted by the All Party Parliamentary Group for North Korea on Oct. 8... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKINDONESIA | Letter Urges Obama to Raise Religious Freedom Concerns     10.2.13

A joint letter to U.S. President Barack Obama ahead of his visit to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit on Oct. 7-8 urges him to raise serious concerns... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKEGYPT | Coptic Bishop Survives Assassination Attempt     10.2.13

The General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of Minya survived an attempted assassination on Sept. 30, when unknown gunmen opened fire... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKSUDAN | Peaceful Protests Continue Amid Crackdown     10.1.13

Over 200 people reportedly died and an estimated 500 may have been injured as Sudanese security forces continue to use live ammunition on unarmed... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKNIGERIA | Boko Haram Attacks Escalate     9.30.13

Islamist sect Boko Haram has attacked a college, Christian settlement and a number of villages in the last fortnight, in an apparent escalation of attacks... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCUBA | Church Leaders Publish Joint Declaration on Religious Freedom     9.25.13

Cuban religious leaders finished a visit to Washington, DC last week by publishing a joint declaration called “Thirty Questions for the Cuban Government.”... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKLAOS | Christians Threatened With Eviction Orders     9.25.13

Christian converts in Savannakhet Province in Laos are facing eviction from their village if they refuse to renounce their Christian beliefs, according to reports from the human rights organization... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKPAKISTAN | CSW Strongly Condemns Attack on Peshawar Church     9.23.13

Christian Solidarity Worldwide strongly condemns Sunday’s double suicide bombing at All Saints Church, Peshawar, expressing condolences for all affected... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKNIGERIA | At Least 160 Dead In Terrorist Related Violence     9.20.13

At least 160 people have died in terrorist related violence this week in Nigeria’s Yobe and Borno States... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKINDIA | CSW Strongly Supports Calls For Communal Violence Legislation     9.19.13

CSW fully endorses the recommendation, made this week by a civil society team in India in its fact-finding report on communal violence against Muslims around Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh state in September... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKIRAN | Two Christians Among 11 Prisoners Released From Jail     9.19.13

Iranian Christians Maryam Jalili and Mitra Rahmati were released from Evin Prison Sept. 18, six weeks before their 2 ½ year sentences were due to be completed... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKVIETNAM | Bishop Appeals to International Community Following Attacks     9.19.13

Msgr. Paul Nguyen Thai Hop, Catholic Bishop of Vinh diocese on Vietnam’s north-central coast, has appealed for “international support and solidarity” following violent attacks against Catholics... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKERITREA | Targeted Sanctions Called for on Anniversary of Arrests     9.18.13

Christian Solidarity Worldwide and Human Rights Concern Eritrea have called for the imposition of targeted sanctions on key Eritrean officials in order to secure the release of prominent politicians and journalists... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKCUBA | Religious Leaders Arrive in Washington, DC     9.17.13

Cuban pastor and blogger, Rev. Mario Felix Lleonart Barroso, arrived in Washington, DC Sept. 16 to begin a week of advocacy meetings with policy makers... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKTANZANIA | Catholic Priest Injured In Acid Attack     9.17.13

Christian Solidarity Worldwide is deeply concerned by an acid attack on an elderly Catholic priest in Zanzibar Sept. 13... READ THIS STORY

Image courtesy of CSW-UKIRAN | CSW Concerned About Iranian Murder     9.4.13

Christian Solidarity Worldwide is concerned to learn of the murder on Aug. 24 of Ataollah Rezvani, a prominent member of Iran's Baha’i community... READ THIS STORY