International Christian Concern | Nov. 15, 2018
King Abdullah II of Jordan traveled to the US to officially receive the 2018 Templeton Prize for his efforts at achieving interfaith harmony and protecting religious freedom. King Abdullah’s efforts at interfaith dialogue between Muslims and Christians gained momentum in 2004 and he continues to promote programs towards this goal.
Jordan ranks number 21 on Open Doors Watch List, which measures the persecution of Christians worldwide. A number of other Middle Eastern countries rate ahead of Jordan, making the country an unusual presence in the region.
Like other Middle Eastern countries, Islam is declared the official state religion of Jordan and Christians report discrimination from local authorities. Converts from Islam face the more difficult challenges, both from their family and the legal arena.