Before Pope Leo Lands in Algeria, Advocates Want the World to Know What Christians Face There
Ahead of Pope Leo XIV's visit to Algeria, advocates have highlighted the challenges faced by Christians in the country, including laws that criminalize conversion and shutter churches. The Algerian government's repression of religious minorities has been criticized, with many churches closed and Christians facing prosecution for converting from Islam.
Pope Leo XIV is expected to visit Algeria in April. Ahead of his trip, advocates have spoken out about the challenges faced by Christians in the country. Algeria's constitution no longer protects freedom of conscience, and conversions to Christianity are criminal offenses. The legal opening of new churches is nearly impossible due to a 2006 ordinance and a 2012 law. 47 churches have been closed by the state, and the Catholic Church's humanitarian service arm was shut down in 2022. Advocates warn that the government may use the pope's visit for PR purposes, while maintaining a policy of control and restriction against Christians.
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