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[[File:Juif.JPG|Juif|thumb]] [[File:HooperBurning.jpg|HooperBurning|thumb|left]] [[File:Caravaggio-Crucifixion_of_Peter.jpg|Caravaggio-Crucifixion of Peter|thumb|left]] [[File:La_masacre_de_San_Bartolomé,_por_François_Dubois.jpg|La masacre de San Bartolomé, por François Dubois|thumb]] [[File:President_Trump_Meets_with_Survivors_of_Religious_Persecution_(48314955692).jpg|President Trump Meets with Survivors of Religious Persecution (48314955692)|thumb]] [[File:Jean-Léon_Gérôme_-_The_Christian_Martyrs'_Last_Prayer_-_Walters_37113.jpg|Jean-Léon Gérôme - The Christian Martyrs' Last Prayer - Walters 37113|thumb]] '''Religious persecution''' is the systematic mistreatment of an individual or group due to their religious beliefs. Throughout history, various societies have persecuted people because of their faith, leading to conflicts, wars, and the suffering of millions. This article explores the concept of religious persecution, its historical examples, and its impact on societies and individuals.

==Definition==
Religious persecution involves the harassment, punishment, or oppression of individuals because of their religious beliefs. It can range from social discrimination and economic penalties to physical violence and genocide. The severity and nature of persecution can vary widely, depending on the societal, political, and cultural contexts.

==Historical Examples==
[[History of religious persecution]] is as old as the practice of religion itself. Some notable examples include:

* The persecution of early [[Christians]] in the Roman Empire, where they were subjected to torture, execution, and being used as scapegoats for societal problems.
* The [[Spanish Inquisition]], initiated to maintain Catholic orthodoxy in the kingdoms of Spain, led to the expulsion, conversion, or execution of thousands of Jews and Muslims.
* The [[Crusades]], military campaigns sanctioned by the Latin Church in the medieval period, often targeted Muslims, Jews, and even other Christian sects.
* The [[Witch hunts]] in Europe and North America, where individuals (mostly women) were accused of witchcraft and suffered torture, imprisonment, or execution.
* The [[Partition of India]] in 1947, which led to widespread religious violence between Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs, resulting in mass casualties and displacement.

==Causes==
The causes of religious persecution are complex and multifaceted, often involving a combination of political, social, and economic factors. Some common causes include:

* [[Religious intolerance]] and bigotry, where one group views another's beliefs as heretical or inferior.
* Political power struggles, where religion is used as a tool to consolidate power or suppress dissent.
* Social and cultural conflicts, where religious differences exacerbate existing tensions.
* Economic envy or competition, where religious minorities are targeted due to their perceived economic success.

==Effects==
The effects of religious persecution can be devastating, not only for the individuals directly affected but also for society as a whole. Some of these effects include:

* Forced migration and displacement of entire communities.
* Loss of life, health, and property among persecuted groups.
* Social and cultural fragmentation, leading to increased polarization and conflict.
* Erosion of freedom of religion or belief, a fundamental human right.
* Stifling of economic development and innovation due to the exclusion of certain groups.

==Contemporary Issues==
In the modern world, religious persecution continues to be a significant issue in many countries. Examples include the persecution of [[Rohingya Muslims]] in Myanmar, the suppression of [[Tibetan Buddhists]] and [[Uighur Muslims]] in China, and the targeting of [[Christians]] in parts of the Middle East and Africa. These situations often involve complex interplays of religion, ethnicity, and politics, making resolution challenging.

==International Response==
The international community has taken steps to address religious persecution through various means, including diplomatic pressure, sanctions, and support for human rights organizations. The [[United Nations]] has also played a role, with the Declaration on the Elimination of All Forms of Intolerance and of Discrimination Based on Religion or Belief (1981) being a key document aimed at promoting religious freedom.

==Conclusion==
Religious persecution remains a pressing global issue, requiring concerted efforts from governments, international organizations, and civil society to address its root causes and support the rights of persecuted individuals and communities.

[[Category:Religious persecution]]
[[Category:Human rights abuses]]

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Religious persecution - Revision history

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