News by email Donate

Suggestions

iran-main_article_image.jpg
yeowatzup/Flickr
World News

Christian children in Iran told to study Islam or leave school

As second generation believers, and not converts, the youngsters have a right to be exempt from studying Shi'a Islam at school by producing a letter from the denomination.

CSW said the letters are now being rejected on the grounds that the Church is an "illegal organisation".

It claimed schools are insisting children either agree to study Islam, or go home.
 
CSW's Chief Executive Mervyn Thomas said: "It is worrying that the education of so many children will be unduly interrupted until their parents agree for them to study a religion different to their own.

"Education is a basic right which Iran has undertaken to guarantee to all of its citizens. Children should not be victimised in an effort to penalise their parents for exercising the right to adopt a religion of their choice.

"Since education is the responsibility of central government, we urge the Special Rapporteur on the right to education and other key international human rights experts to make urgent representations with President Rouhani, with a view to ensuring the country fulfils its national and international obligations to respect the right of the child to education, and particularly to religious education commensurate with the convictions and beliefs of their parents."

A number of leaders in Church of Iran have faced action in recent years - normally linked to evangelism. They often face charges of acting against the state.

A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference

In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.

Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.

For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.

Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.

Support Us
Continue the conversation on our Facebook page

Related Articles

Sign up to our newsletter to stay informed with news from a Christian perspective.

News by email

Connect

Donate

Donate