A recent report reveals a concerning increase in anti-Christian hate crimes across Europe, with 2,444 incidents recorded in 2023. Compiled by OIDAC Europe, the findings draw from police and civil society data across 35 countries, shedding light on the growing hostility Christians face. These crimes range from verbal abuse and physical violence to vandalism and arson, predominantly targeting Christian institutions and individuals.
The statistics reveal that at least 1,230 of these incidents stemmed from governmental actions or negligence, up from 1,029 in 2022. Countries like France, Germany, and the United Kingdom reported the highest numbers of cases. France alone documented nearly 1,000 hate crimes, with 90% of these targeting churches and cemeteries. One particularly distressing case involved two nuns in Nantes who relocated after enduring persistent hostility, including verbal and physical abuse.
Picture: Rally against the attack on churches
In the United Kingdom, 702 hate crimes were reported between April 2023 and March 2024, marking a 15% increase from the previous year. One shocking incident involved an attempted murder of a Christian convert by a former roommate who viewed him as an apostate. Germany also experienced a 105% increase in anti-Christian hate crimes, with incidents rising from 135 in 2022 to 277 in 2023.
Vandalism accounted for 62% of reported incidents across Europe, making it the most common form of attack. Other notable acts included arson, physical violence, and verbal threats. The report noted that these growing hostilities have had a chilling effect on public expressions of Christian faith, leading many believers to self-censor in workplaces, universities, and other public spaces.
The findings highlight a broader trend of discrimination, with Christians facing restrictions on public prayer, legal repercussions for expressing their beliefs, and limitations on parental rights or conscientious objections to specific medical procedures.
All these actions are heartbreaking to Christians worldwide, but believers going through this should be encouraged by Matthew 5:10, which says:
“Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”. Believes should remain strong and hold on to their faith till the end.