The Christian population in areas governed by the Palestinian Authority and Hamas has plummeted drastically, with some communities experiencing a decline of up to 90%. This alarming trend threatens the survival of Christianity in its historical heartland, as violence, discrimination, and economic hardships drive many to flee.
Key Takeaways
- Christian population in Palestinian territories has decreased from 11% in 1922 to just 1% in 2024.
- The Christian community in Gaza has shrunk from 5,000 in 2007 to 1,000 in 2023.
- Systemic oppression and socio-economic challenges are primary factors for the decline.
Historical Context
The demographic shift of Christians in Palestinian territories has been stark over the past century. In 1922, Christians constituted 11% of the population in geographical Palestine. By 2024, this figure is projected to drop to a mere 1%, according to a study by the Jerusalem Center for Security and Foreign Affairs.
Factors Contributing to Decline
Several factors contribute to the drastic reduction of the Christian population:
- Violence and Discrimination: Many Christians face systemic oppression and violence, often going unreported due to fear of retaliation from both the Palestinian Authority and local Muslim communities.
- Economic Hardships: Employment discrimination and economic instability have forced many Christians to seek opportunities abroad, with a 2022 study indicating that the desire to emigrate among Gaza’s Christians is twice as strong as that of Muslims.
- Religious Coercion: Christians frequently encounter harassment for practicing their faith, with incidents of church desecration and threats against converts from Islam to Christianity being reported.
Case Study: Bethlehem
Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus, exemplifies the decline of the Christian community. In 1950, Christians made up 86% of the population in Bethlehem and surrounding villages. However, by the last census in 2017, this number had plummeted to about 10%. The decline is attributed to socio-economic hardships, instability, and harassment from both Muslim Palestinians and the Palestinian Authority.
The Role of the Palestinian Authority
The Palestinian Authority has been criticized for its failure to protect Christians. Reports indicate that Christians feel unprotected, with instances of violence against them often going unaddressed. For example, a mob attacked the Forefathers Orthodox Church in Beit Sahour in 2022, injuring congregants, yet no arrests were made.
Global Oversight
The plight of Palestinian Christians is often overlooked by the international community, which tends to focus on other regional conflicts. The researchers emphasize that the survival of Christianity in its birthplace hinges on global awareness and action. Silence on these issues only strengthens the perpetrators and leaves victims without support.
Current Situation
The situation has been exacerbated by the recent military offensive in Gaza following a surprise attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023. The ongoing violence and instability further threaten the already dwindling Christian population, raising concerns about the future of Christianity in its historical homeland.
In conclusion, the dramatic decline of the Christian population in areas governed by Hamas and the Palestinian Authority poses a significant threat to the survival of Christianity in its birthplace. Addressing the systemic issues and raising awareness on this crisis is crucial for the future of this ancient faith.
Sources
- Christians nearly wiped out in Christianity’s birthplace | World, Christian Post.
