by Obianuju Mbah, Christian Today
Anti-Christian incidents across Europe rose sharply in May, with new figures showing the highest monthly number of arson-related attacks recorded so far this year.
According to a report released by the Observatory on Intolerance and Discrimination against Christians in Europe (OIDAC Europe), 37 anti-Christian hate crimes were documented during the month, targeting churches, Christian institutions, religious symbols and individual believers.
The latest figures follow OIDAC Europe’s April report, which recorded 38 anti-Christian hate crimes across the continent.
While violence, intimidation and disruptions to worship featured prominently during Easter celebrations, May was marked by a significant rise in arson attacks against Christian sites.
OIDAC documented 13 cases across Europe during May, the highest monthly total recorded in 2026.
The attacks ranged from fires inside church buildings to incidents targeting religious objects and parish facilities.