Countries in Latin America are becoming increasingly hostile to Christians, according to the Open Doors World Watch List.

The list highlights the 50 most dangerous countries for religious persecution.

Cuba places 26th, Nicaragua 30th and Mexico 31st.

Open Doors CEO Henrietta Blyth told Premier that gang violence has been a driver in attacks on Christians. “We don't talk often about Mexico,” she said. “It's the only country in Latin America that's risen up the list because of organised crime and the criminals.

“The criminal leaders are persecuting Christians who speak out against their crimes and who also are helping people affected by the violence.”

Since December 2024, Premier has received three separate reports of pastors killed in Colombia. One attack saw a pastor killed alongside his family, outside their church.

The Open Doors report highlights growing authoritarianism in Nicaragua. In 2018, the country experienced mass protests against social security reforms, which escalated into violence.

Caught in the crosshairs was Christian mother Adriana. Her sons were attacked by police whilst attending a church service and hid in a house for two days to avoid further assault.

Adriana’s husband, a pastor, refused to vote in the 2021 elections – believing them to be biased. As a result, his church lost legal status.  

“It is not easy, nor is it impossible,” Adriana said. “However, I cannot deny that it is a great challenge to remain hopeful, to keep the fire burning.”