Maldives

Where Persecution Comes From

The government of the Maldives insists that the country be run according to conservative Islamic tenets, and that all citizens be Muslims. In effect, there is no religious freedom, except for expatriate Christians who are only allowed to practice their faith in utmost privacy, behind closed doors and strictly monitored. Because the government is currently engaged in a political struggle with opposition forces, any perceived threat (like Christianity – resulting in Christian persecution) is quickly and harshly eradicated. Radical Islamic preachers and clerics exert socio-religious control and influence others to do the same, making it impossible for Christians, especially converts, to practice their faith without heavy monitoring or punishment by government authorities.

How Christians are Suffering

Because the Maldives has one of the highest population densities worldwide, communities are extremely close-knit and homogeneous. These communities serve as natural watchdogs for any deviation from the norm, including the practice of Christianity. Conversion to Christianity is thus easily reported to Muslim leaders or authorities. Expatriate Christians are under constant monitoring as well, and fellowship is incredibly challenging due to the high degree of social control. The larger the expatriate Christian community gets, the harder it becomes for them to meet–deemed a threat by the government and society.

Examples

Due to security risks and the extremely small Christian community in the Maldives, examples of Christian persecution go unreported and undisclosed.