Anti-Christian Hostility in Europe Reaches Two-Decade High, Report Finds
A new report documents a rise in anti-Christian incidents across Europe in April 2026, including attacks during Easter services, vandalism, and arson. Government restrictions on religious freedom are at their highest level in 20 years.
Anti-Christian hostility across Europe reached its highest level in two decades, according to a report covering incidents in April 2026.
The report, covered by Christian Today, documents violent attacks during Easter services, vandalism of church property, desecrations, arson, and assaults on clergy and worshippers. Governmental restrictions on religious freedom in Europe are now at their highest point in 20 years, the report states.
In Colombia, Christians are petitioning for protection of pastors following a series of murders. In Mozambique, a historic church was destroyed in an extremist attack.
The case of Finnish politician Paivi Rasanen continues to draw attention. Rasanen was convicted for distributing a biblical pamphlet and has appealed her case to the European Court of Human Rights.
In the United Kingdom, a retired pastor was convicted for preaching John 3:16 near abortion facilities in a designated "safe access zone." The case has sparked debate about the limits of religious expression in public spaces.
Christians in Manipur, India, are facing what advocates describe as a "grave and escalating humanitarian crisis," with ongoing violence displacing thousands of believers.
Despite the challenges, a recent survey found that young Christians are engaging more with the Bible. Researchers studying faith and mental well-being among young people also found that religious practice is linked to better mental health outcomes in several age groups.
