Christian missionaries say they are being unfairly banned from entering Türkiye, even after living there legally for many years. Since 2019, authorities have marked some Christians with security codes like “N-82” and “G-87,” which are usually used for terrorism suspects. Many missionaries say they have no criminal record and were peacefully serving local churches, teaching, helping families, and supporting small Christian communities. Some have lived in the country for decades, married Türkish citizens, and raised children there. The legal group Alliance Defending Freedom has taken 20 cases to the European Court of Human Rights. They argue that these actions break human rights laws, including freedom of religion, family life, and fair legal process. The court has asked the Türkish government to reply. The European Parliament also voted strongly to condemn the expulsions. However, Türkiye’s government denied targeting Christians and called the criticism an interference in its internal affairs. Many families are still separated while the cases continue.

In the Mighty Name of our LORD and Savior Jesus Christ, we command the Angels of the LORD GOD to surround and protect all believers, as well as missionaries serving in Türkiye, their families, and their properties from all evil (The Holy Bible, Isaiah 45:11).

With the help, comfort, and boldness of the Spirit given to each Christian, let the Christians and missionaries declare that, “we are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed”, in the Mighty Name of Jesus Christ, Amen (The Holy Bible, 2 Timothy 1:7).

Pray for the Türkish government to abide by the international laws on freedom of religion and uphold the rights and freedoms of Christians and missionaries living in the country (The Holy Bible, Matthew 21:44).

News Source: Premier Christian News, ADF International

Image Source: Canva