World Watch List | Oman

[ World Watch List Challenge • #27 Oman ]

Quick Facts on Oman Rank: 27 Previous Rank: 22 Leader: Sultan Qaboos Government: Absolute monarchy Religion: Islam Population: 3 million (35,000 Christians) Source of persecution: Islamic extremism/Dictatorial paranoia   Oman There has been no visible change in recent years in the situation for Christians in Oman. Oman scores 56 points on the World Watch List 2014, the same score as in 2013. The main persecution dynamics in Oman are Islamic extremism and Totalitarian paranoia. Islam is the state religion, and legislation is based on Islamic law. All public school curriculums include instruction in Islam. Apostasy is not a criminal offense, but it is not respected by the legal system either, which assumes that all citizens are Muslims. The very concept of changing one’s faith as an Omani citizen is an abomination. A convert faces difficulties under the Personal Status and Family Legal Code, which prohibits a father from having custody over his children if he leaves Islam. Deportation of foreign workers (because of their Christian activities) continues. Because of Totalitarian paranoia, Christians face restrictions when their activities are considered a threat to the ruling power. Almost all Christians are expatriates. Pray that the few indigenous Christians will find ways to meet for fellowship, in spite of the ongoing persecution. *Names, photographs and other information have been changed for security purposes   Share This Story Pray Christians in Oman need your prayers. Post a prayer or word of encouragement. Share Be a voice for persecuted Christians in Oman. Share their stories and make others aware of their plight Give Help us in assisting Christians around the world who are persecuted for their faith in Jesus Christ. Donate to help the persecuted church Your gift goes to Bible and gospel development, women and children advancement, and Christian community restoration.