A report on Turkey by the European Commission in November highlighted the ongoing persecution of Christians in 2016, stating that ‘hate speech and hate crimes against Christians and Jews continued to be repeatedly reported’.
Typical incidents recorded by churches include Islamic anti-Christian posters and graffiti being placed near church buildings, anonymous threats sent by text and email to pastors, as well as physical attacks. In many cases, no official action is taken by police.
‘Christians a security threat’
Since the apparent attempted coup in July 2016, the Turkish Government has cracked down on Christian activity, citing national security concerns. The pastor of a church in Izmir was arrested for ‘threatening national security’ and several foreign nationals involved in Christian ministry have recently had residence permits rescinded.
