Source: www.persecution.org
Date: September 2, 2024
By Lisa Navarrette, ICC Fellow
Technology, just like money, is a tool that can be used for good or evil. We know that technology has increased persecution.(1) It also has profoundly improved the lives of persecuted Christians, offering them crucial support and protection. Secure communication platforms, such as encrypted messaging apps, play a critical role by allowing these individuals to stay in touch with their families, support networks, and international organizations while preserving their safety.(2) These tools ensure privacy and security through end-to-end encryption, safeguarding against interception and unauthorized access. For instance, in Iran, Christians use Signal to share testimonies on the interactive platform.(3) Similarly, in China, where religious activities are tightly monitored, WhatsApp allows for encrypted communication, enabling believers to coordinate support and share updates discreetly.(4)
Social media and online platforms have been instrumental in raising global awareness about the plight of persecuted Christians. They amplify their voices, mobilize international advocacy efforts, and help draw attention to their struggles, creating pressure for action from the global community. #SaveTheChristianMinorities is a social media campaign that uses hashtags to raise awareness about Christian persecution and mobilize international support. Organizations such as International Christian Concern use their website and social media channels to highlight stories of persecuted Christians and advocate for their protection.
Digital platforms also provide essential resources that support the faith and community life of persecuted Christians. Virtual churches and online Bible education enables believers to participate in religious practices and continue their spiritual growth despite physical barriers. Online spiritual counseling and support groups provide emotional and psychological assistance, helping individuals cope with trauma. In Nigeria, where Boko Haram has decimated Christian communities, believers can attend virtual church services on platforms like Zoom or YouTube, maintaining their spiritual connection despite the threat of violence. Websites such as Bible.org and The Gospel Coalition offer online Bible courses and resources, supporting the spiritual education of Christians in countries like Saudi Arabia, where open religious practice is prohibited.
Technology aids human rights organizations in monitoring and reporting incidents of persecution. Digital tools facilitate data collection and analysis, helping identify patterns and present compelling evidence to international bodies and policymakers. This is the driving force of advocacy and intervention. Human Rights Watch uses digital tools to document and report on religious persecution in places like Myanmar, including the use of satellite imagery to verify reports of violence against Christian minorities. Platforms like iWitness or the International Criminal Court’s online reporting tools allow for real-time reporting of human rights abuses in countries such as Eritrea, where Christians face severe repression and imprisonment.
Online fundraising and secure donation platforms make it easier for individuals and organizations to provide financial support. These platforms offer transparency and efficiency in distributing funds, ensuring that aid reaches those in need. For example, GoFundMe enables supporters to create fundraising campaigns for persecuted Christian communities in Pakistan, where blasphemy laws are used to target believers. Charity Navigator provides transparency and evaluation of organizations offering aid to persecuted Christians. This ensures that donations are effectively used to support individuals and communities in need, such as those in Sudan who face ongoing persecution.
Digital tools provide crucial education and training to Christians in persecuted regions. Online safety training, legal advice, and guidance on navigating hostile environments equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage their safety and rights. In India, where religious violence can erupt unexpectedly, platforms like Coursera or Udemy offer courses on digital security and personal safety. Such courses help Christians learn how to protect themselves online and avoid scams. Services like LegalZoom or local legal aid organizations provide guidance on navigating legal issues related to persecution, assisting believers in countries like Egypt, where Christians may face legal challenges due to discriminatory laws and practices. Despite the increased risks, technology remains a powerful tool for protecting and empowering persecuted Christian communities worldwide.
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Navarrette, Lisa. (2024, July 11). Has Technology Increased Persecution? International Christian Concern. https://www.persecution.org/2024/07/11/has-technology-increased-persecution/
Christian Freedom International. (2024, February 12). Internet: A Gift for the Persecuted & Tool for Persecution – Christian Freedom International. Https://Christianfreedom.org/. https://christianfreedom.org/internet-a-gift-for-persecuted-tool-for-persecution/
Smith, S. (2020, March 9). “Silent heroes”: Interactive TV show gives Christians in Iran platform to share testimonies. Christianpost.com; The Christian Post. https://www.christianpost.com/news/silent-heroes-interactive-tv-show-gives-christians-in-iran-platform-to-share-testimonies.html
Lim, F. K., & Sng, B. B. (2020). Social media, religion and shifting boundaries in globalizing China. Global Media and China, 5(3), 261-274. https://doi.org/10.1177/2059436420923169