Iranian Christian converts frequently arrested and questioned

In 2014, asylum applications were submitted in Finland by 95 Iranians, while the number of applications was 31 between January and June 2015. Of the Iranians interviewed last year, when applying for asylum half referred to their conversion to the Christian faith. This is revealed by the asylum interview protocols examined in a fresh report by the Country Information Service of the Finnish Immigration Service.

“Iran’s 300,000 or so Christians divide into those born into and those converted to Christianity. In particular, converts to Christianity who are openly Christian, those performing missionary work and those with western Christian contacts are in danger of discrimination and arrest,” says Project Manager Arno Tanner.

Protestant churches closed, house churches raided

Surveillance and restrictions of churches have increased since 2009. It has been almost impossible to hold services in Farsi, evangelical churches have been closed and new members have been prevented from participating in activities.

As a result, an unofficial network of house churches has sprung up in Iran, which are raided by officials at Christmas in particular. The state regards Christian house churches as a threat to national security. Pastors are arrested, members are interrogated and worshippers are required to commit themselves to refraining from participation in public Christian activities. Public religious practices and missions are of greater interest to the state than personal convictions.

Convictions for apostasy and executions are rare

“Iran’s religious administration views renouncing Islam, i.e. apostasy and conversion to Christianity, as extremely sensitive issues,” says Tanner.

According to the prevailing interpretation by the Ayatollah Khomeini, renouncing Islam is punishable by the death penalty, but death sentences in line with the Sharia law are rare due to international condemnations and the vagueness of the related legislation.

Themes for country information reports based on asylum interview protocols

The current theme report is one outcome of the Suuntaus project. Suuntaus is a country information development project funded by the European Refugee Fund. The Country Information Service of the Finnish Immigration Service continuously collects information on the countries of origin of asylum seekers. The information obtained assists immigration officials when making permit decisions. Completed reports can be found on the website of the Finnish Immigration Service.

Further information

Arno Tanner, Project Manager, +358 295 430 431, arno.tanner@migri.fi