More than half a billion Christians live in countries where access to the Bible is restricted, according to the 2026 Bible Access Initiative. Researchers estimate that more than 125 million believers cannot access Scripture in any format because of legal, political, social, or economic barriers.
The collaborative study examined 106 countries and identified obstacles including persecution, poverty, illiteracy, limited electricity, and inadequate internet access. Afghanistan, Yemen, Somalia, North Korea, and Eritrea ranked among the countries with the most severe restrictions.
Bible shortages also remain significant where Scripture is legal. The Democratic Republic of Congo topped the shortage list, followed by Ethiopia, Nigeria, and India, with more than 10 million Christians in each country reportedly lacking access. Researchers estimate that 54 million Bibles are needed across 18 countries where socioeconomic conditions, rather than persecution, are the primary obstacle.
The report was developed by Christian organizations including Open Doors International, Voice of the Martyrs, YouVersion, Biblica Global Bible Ministry, and others to help churches identify opportunities for prayer, financial support, distribution, and advocacy.
