There is a map that few dare to look at. It doesn't show political borders or trade routes. It shows where following Jesus can cost you your freedom—or your life.

The 2026 World Watch List, published by the organization Open Doors, reveals that more than 388 million Christians around the world face high levels of persecution and discrimination because of their faith. The research was conducted between October 2024 and September 2025 and indicates that extreme persecution now affects 15 countries—two more than in the previous edition.

The map that the media doesn't show.

For the 23rd consecutive time, North Korea occupies the top spot in the ranking — the country where pressure on Christians reached a maximum score in all spheres of life, from family to nation.

Syria jumped from 18th to 6th position. The fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime in December 2024 opened space for militias and armed groups, making Christians even more vulnerable to attacks, extortion, and assassinations. An attack in Damascus in June killed 22 Christians.

Africa bleeding in silence.

Africa remains the epicenter of violence against Christians. Of the total 4,849 Christian deaths related to faith in 2026, 93%—that is, 4,491 lives—occurred in this region.

Nigeria alone accounts for about 72% of the murders of Jesus followers recorded during the research period—violence largely perpetrated by extremist Islamic groups that attack Christian communities with almost total impunity.

Where there is persecution, there is a mission.

For the Gideons, this map is not a statistic. It's an address.

The Gideons are present in many places where the gospel is most costly. The missionary flame must not be extinguished.

While 388 million Christians resist persecution, the Church is called to do its part — with resources and prayers.

Pray now for the nations!

North Korea — by Christians who worship in secret, at risk of death.

Syria — for displaced families and attacked churches

Nigeria — for Christian communities under extremist violence

Mali — for the brothers who resist the advance of radicalism.

Pray for the Gideons missionaries in the field in the closed nations.

"Ask of me, and I will give you the nations as your inheritance." — Psalm 2:8

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Research source: Open Doors