Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo are continuing to suffer intense persecution as violence by armed extremist groups escalates, particularly in the country’s eastern regions. Christian communities report frequent attacks on villages and churches, leaving many believers living in fear for their lives. Families have been forced to abandon their homes as insecurity spreads across the region.
Between July 2024 and July 2025, nearly 400 Christians were reportedly killed, according to research by the Institute for International Religious Freedom. Observers warn the real number could be much higher because many attacks in remote areas go unreported.
Much of the violence has been linked to the Allied Democratic Forces, an extremist group connected to Islamic State Central Africa Province. Militants have carried out brutal assaults on villages, churches, hospitals, and workplaces, killing civilians and abducting women and children.
Despite the suffering, local Christians continue to hold firmly to their faith. Church leaders are calling for global prayer and stronger international attention as believers in the region face death, displacement, and destruction simply for their Christian faith. Human rights advocates say urgent action is needed to protect these vulnerable communities.