Persecution for Religious Freedom on Rise
By Paul Strand
CBN News
May 3, 2007
CBNNews.com - Growing challenges are mounting in the fight for religious freedom.
A new report names the countries where it has become dangerous for people to worship.
Persecution is on the rise around the world.
Wednesday's report from the U.S Commission on International Religious Freedom highlights some of the worst offenders.
This year, 11 countries are on the list as CPCs, or countries of particular concern.
Once again, North Korea was considered the most oppressive regime.
"North Korea is a country that I think we'd all agree is the worst violator of human rights abuses of any kind and also religious freedom abuses," said Michael Cromartie.
Other CPC countries include Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, China, and Vietnam.
"Vietnam has initiated a severe crackdown on human rights defenders and advocates for the freedoms of speech, association, and assembly," Richard Land of USCIRF said.
The commission also named eight countries to its watch list to monitor closely.
Iraq was a new member to the list, and Chairwoman Felice Gaer says the human rights violations in Iraq are progressively getting worse.
"Despite ongoing efforts to stabilize the country, successive Iraqi governments have not curbed those abuses and the growing scope and severity of those abuses," Gaer said.
If the situation in Iraq doesn't improve, next year it could be upgraded to a country of particular concern.
For more on this issue, watch an interview with Michael Cromartie, Vice-Chairman of the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom. Click on the play button above.
CBN IS HERE FOR YOU!
Are you seeking answers in life? Are you hurting?
Are you facing a difficult situation?
A caring friend will be there to pray with you in your time of need.
