Victimization: Targeting Christians in Africa's War Zones – The Rising Threat Since 2018

• In Event: Contemporary Issues in Victimization: Religion and Fraud

Abstract

The victimization of Christians by armed groups in Africa has escalated in recent years, fueled by the growth of Salafi-jihadist networks, ethno-religious tensions, and state fragility. This study explores patterns of targeted violence against Christian communities perpetrated by groups such as Al-Qaeda affiliates like Al-Shabaab and ISIS affiliates. Drawing from data provided by the Global Terrorism Trends and Analysis Center (GTTAC), independent reports, and authoritative sources, this research examines the acts of victimization involved, focusing on the religious persecution of Christians as an aim. The findings demonstrate how these groups exploit weak governance, fragile states, and vulnerable communities to further their objectives, intensifying violence against Christian populations. Additionally, the study evaluates the effectiveness of national and international counterterrorism measures and their impact on the protection of victims. Situated within criminological discourse on victimization, particularly of faith-based communities, the study highlights the scope and scale of religiously motivated violence in Africa. The conclusions underscore the need for comprehensive policy interventions that address both security challenges and the underlying drivers of religiously motivated victimization of Christians, offering actionable recommendations for policymakers worldwide.

Author

• Pearl Matibe, George Mason University