Lisa Navarette, ICC Fellow
Technology, like money, is a tool that can be used for good or for evil. We know that technology has increased persecution. (1) It has also greatly improved the lives of persecuted Christians, providing them with vital support and protection. Secure communication platforms such as encrypted messaging apps play a vital role by allowing these people to stay in touch with family, support networks, and international organizations while remaining safe. (2) These tools ensure privacy and security through end-to-end encryption, protecting against interception and unauthorized access. For example, in Iran, Christians use Signal to share testimonies on an interactive platform. (3) Similarly, in China, where religious activities are heavily monitored, WhatsApp enables encrypted communication, allowing believers to coordinate support and share updates in private. (4)
Social media and online platforms have played a key role in raising awareness globally about the plight of persecuted Christians. These platforms amplify the voices of Christians, mobilize international advocacy, draw attention to their suffering, and generate pressure for action from the world community. #SaveTheChristianMinorities is a social media campaign that uses the hashtag to raise awareness about the persecution of Christians and mobilize international support. Organizations such as International Christian Concern use their websites and social media channels to feature stories of persecuted Christians and advocate for their protection.
Digital platforms also provide important resources to support the faith and community life of persecuted Christians. Virtual churches and online Bible education allow believers to participate in religious practice and continue spiritual growth despite physical barriers. Online spiritual counseling and support groups provide emotional and psychological support and help individuals cope with trauma. In Nigeria, where Boko Haram has devastated Christian communities, believers can attend virtual church services on platforms such as Zoom and YouTube to maintain spiritual connections despite threats of violence. Websites such as Bible.org and The Gospel Coalition offer online Bible courses and resources to support the spiritual education of Christians in countries such as Saudi Arabia, where overt religious practice is banned.
Technology is helping human rights organizations monitor and report cases of persecution. Digital tools facilitate data collection and analysis, helping to identify patterns and present compelling evidence to international organizations and policymakers. This drives advocacy and intervention. Human Rights Watch uses digital tools to document and report on religious persecution in countries such as Myanmar, including using satellite imagery to verify reports of violence against Christian minorities. Platforms such as iWitness and the International Criminal Court's online reporting tool allow for real-time reporting of human rights violations 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 provide transparency and efficiency in the distribution of funds, ensuring that assistance reaches those in need. For example, GoFundMe allows donors to create fundraising campaigns for persecuted Christian communities in Pakistan, where blasphemy laws target believers. Charity Navigator provides transparency and ratings for organizations that provide aid to persecuted Christians. This ensures that donations are used effectively to support individuals and communities in need, such as those in Sudan who face ongoing persecution.
Digital tools provide important education and training for Christians in persecuted areas. Online safety training, legal advice, and guidance for navigating hostile environments equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage their safety and rights. In India, where religious violence can suddenly erupt, platforms such as Coursera and Udemy offer courses on digital security and personal safety. Such courses help Christians learn how to protect themselves online and avoid scams. Services such as LegalZoom and local legal aid organizations provide guidance for navigating legal issues related to persecution, helping believers in countries such as Egypt where discriminatory laws and practices may cause Christians to face legal challenges. Despite the growing risks, technology remains a powerful tool to protect and empower persecuted Christian communities around the world.
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Navarette, Lisa. (July 11, 2024). “Has Technology Increased Persecution? International Christian Concern”. https://www.persecution.org/2024/07/11/has-technology-increased-persecution/ Christian Freedom International. (February 12, 2024). “The Internet: A Gift for the Persecuted and a Tool of Persecution – Christian Freedom International”. https://Christianfreedom.org/. https://christianfreedom.org/internet-a-gift-for-persecuted-tool-for-persecution/ Smith, S. (March 9, 2020). “Silent Heroes”: Interactive TV Program Gives Iranian Christians a Forum to Share Their 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, FK, & Sng, BB (2020). Social media, religion, and shifting boundaries in a globalizing China. Global Media and China, 5(3), 261-274. https://doi.org/10.1177/2059436420923169
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