Expressed concern about the underreporting of violence against Christians in African countries such as Somalia, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Cameroon, and Nigeria. Cited specific instances and statistics on attacks and killings, including 3,530 Christians killed in Nigeria within a year. Does the hon. Lady take some comfort from the fact that a good Christian friend visited an atheist imprisoned in Indonesia to console him? He and she would probably like to see more of such actions. Mr Andrew Selous briefly mentioned Black Lives Matter, highlighting the need for attention to be given to issues concerning Christians in Africa.

Discussed the importance of promoting tolerance, understanding and respect among different religious groups. Raised concerns about cuts to DFID's aid programme and the potential loss of long-term work on developing civil society and education for girls. Highlighted the severity of persecution, discrimination, abductions, sexual violence, and killings in Central African countries such as South Sudan and Nigeria. Asks the Minister to explain how the role of the envoy, resources, and reorganisation within the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office will come together so that parliamentarians can better scrutinise arrangements.

Mr. Leigh highlighted violent attacks against Christians in South Sudan, Uganda's Allied Democratic Forces' operations in the DRC, and Islamist insurgencies in Mozambique. He cited Bishop Paluku Sikuli Melchisédech's account of violence in Congo and emphasized the need for UK support to combat extremism, including proper resources for the Prime Minister's special envoy.

The hon. Member for Congleton intervened during the debate expressing support for the issue and highlighting the abduction of children in Nigeria. Ms Fiona Bruce highlighted the increasing violence against Christians, Muslims and other faiths in Nigeria driven by extremist Islamist ideology. She mentioned a report stating that 43,000 Christians were killed and 18,500 disappeared over the past 12 years due to Fulani attacks, while noting that moderate Muslims are also targeted. The contributor emphasised the need for accountability from the Nigerian Government and the importance of securing protection for all communities in Nigeria. Intervened to express concern about the linking up of extremist groups across multiple countries, posing serious dangers. Thanks the Minister for her speech but expresses concern that private discussions with governments are insufficient; calls for a clear and public calling out of issues in Nigeria and a call to action from the Nigerian Government.

Compliments the charity Open Doors for its work in highlighting the situation faced by Christians around the world. Expressed concern about the violations and abuses of freedom of religion in central African countries, highlighting issues faced by Christians in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Central African Republic, and Cameroon. Emphasised the need for urgent action on the recommendations from the Truro report and criticised the UK's aid cuts to Africa.

Raises concern over the abduction of young children, particularly Christians, by gunmen in Nigeria and calls for more action to address this issue. She also highlights increased risks faced by Christian women during lockdowns. Agrees that the aid budget should not have been cut at a critical time. She suggests focusing on channeling aid towards those most in need, including ensuring equality of access to education for young girls and supporting community safety.

Notes that Sudan has abolished the death penalty for apostasy, expressing hope for similar changes elsewhere in the region. She asks how religious tolerance can be built upon.

Asked for elaboration on the impact of violence against Christians in Central African countries, specifically regarding children. Mr Millar highlighted the importance of addressing the root cause of violence against Christians, which is militant Islamic extremism. He stressed the need for a realistic approach to tackle this issue and urged the government to provide necessary resources. Additionally, he raised concerns about the reporting of women who are victims of conflict, questioning the casual reference to abusers as 'husbands'. Mr Robin Millar contributed late but appropriately to the debate, stressing points relevant to violence against Christians.

Noted that it was a delight to speak under his chairmanship. Summarised the debate by highlighting issues of security, violence against women and girls, and the importance of education and basic human rights in Central African countries.