Turkey Classifies Christians as ‘National Security Threats,’ Prompting Deportations and Global Concern

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Have you ever been persecuted for your faith? If you haven’t, you’re among the few. If you have, you’re in the majority. Sadly, this persecution isn’t just happening in the U.S., but all over the world. 

At the top of the list is Turkey’s recent classification of Christian leaders and missionaries as “national security threats.” Deporting hundreds of foreign Christians and blocking their return with this label, the international legal advocacy group reports that this move has led to deportations and renewed fears of religious discrimination. 

Since 2020, over 350 foreign Christian workers and their families have been barred from the country under these threats. Internal security codes N-82 and G-87, according to the ADF International reports, prevent re-entry or deny residency permits, most times without charges or evidence of wrongdoing. Such persecution isn’t just unfair, but highly common in other countries such as the U.S., the United Kingdom, Germany, South Korea, Latin America, and Europe. 

Today, advocates and human rights organizations are attempting to take a stand against a multi-year issue. Again, since 2019-2020, Turkey has deported dozens of Christians, often without a valid reason or explanation. In fact, ADF International reports that “Christians are the most persecuted religious group internationally, and yet this issue receives limited attention from the international community. In Turkey, the government is systematically targeting Christians and their families by banning their reentry into the country, despite their long-term legal residence.”

Turkish authorities may continue to cite “security concerns” under vague laws, but Christians continue to argue that this persecution is due exclusively to their expression and commitment to faith. Not so sure? Consider the case of Andrew Brunson, which began in October 2016.