In a world beset by tensions and instability, many priests and religious continue to carry out their mission at the risk of their lives. According to a report published by the international Catholic organization Aid to the Church in Need (ACN), at least 122 priests and religious were killed, kidnapped, or imprisoned worldwide during the year 2024.
The past year saw 13 murders of priests and religious, a number similar to that of 2023, where 14 people lost their lives. In contrast, kidnappings saw a slight increase, rising from 33 in 2023 to 38 in 2024. Regarding imprisonments, a decrease is noted, with 71 cases recorded compared to 87 the previous year.
These figures conceal deeply distressing human dramas. In several regions of the world, being a priest or religious represents a constant risk, yet many choose to remain with the people they serve, despite the threats weighing upon them.
The ACN report highlights particularly concerning situations in certain countries.
- Haiti: In 2024, 18 people were kidnapped, compared to only 2 the previous year. These kidnappings, facilitated by a power vacuum, resulted in the release of all the victims.
- Nigeria: This country remains one of the most dangerous for priests and religious. With 12 kidnappings reported in 2024, the situation, however, shows a slight improvement. As in Haiti, all kidnapped persons were released.
- Nicaragua: The situation there is particularly alarming. In 2024, 25 priests were imprisoned, bringing the total number of incarcerated religious to 44. The government, opposed to the Church, continues to severely restrict the freedoms of clergy members and the faithful. Some religious have been denied re-entry to the country after traveling abroad, while others have had to flee to avoid arrest.
China remains a country where obtaining reliable information is difficult. The ACN organization recorded nine cases of priest imprisonments in 2024. Among them, one was released, but five others are still detained, some for many years. One of them has been deprived of his freedom since 1997, illustrating the prolonged repression against the Church in that country.
In these times of trial, their witness of faith and perseverance remains a source of inspiration for the universal Church. May the Lord grant them His strength and protection in their mission.