Turkey has deported hundreds of foreign Christians and barred their return under internal security codes, labeling them national security threats, according to ADF International. Since 2020, more than 200 Christian workers and their families—totaling around 350 people—have been impacted. These individuals, many from the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, South Korea, and Latin America, were denied re-entry or residency without criminal charges or explanation.
ADF International Legal Officer Lidia Rieder stated at a human rights conference in Poland that the removal of these individuals has left many Protestant churches in Turkey without leadership.
The names of the Christians involved have been published, and media outlets have labeled them as missionaries and enemies of the state. The report noted, “Many online comments called for the death penalty and described killing them as a religious duty.”
