Pentecostalism emerges strongest in states as a replacement for weak governance like post-colonial Ethiopia. As an expressive faith that involves dancing and self-improvement, Pentecostalism also inspires worshippers to participate in civil society and fight for more just governments at the ballot box. However, as evident in Ethiopia, religious groups face major shortcomings in addressing deep-rooted issues restricting healthy democracy.
Read MoreU.S. political rhetoric has revived attention to Nigeria’s struggle with extremist violence, often relying on dramatic but unverified statistics that oversimplify the conflict. Although Christian communities have suffered greatly under jihadis group, Boko Haram, Muslims and other groups have also been targeted, complicating claims that Christians alone have been targeted. When inflated figures dominate the conversation, they distort public understanding and encourage one dimensional U.S. policy responses that overlook Nigeria’s broader security challenges.
Read MoreA war is being waged against the Catholic Church in Nicaragua. Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega has imprisoned and exiled approximately 15 percent of the total Nicaraguan clergy. Among these are figures such as Bishop Rolando José Álvarez, who was recently released from detainment on January 14, 2024. Ortega claims that the Catholic Church is part of a conspiracy backed by the U.S. to overthrow his regime. Such allegations have been derived from protests against Ortega’s government in 2018, along with having historical roots in the Nicaraguan Civil War.
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