Page 1 — Introduction and Context 
Yemen’s ongoing civil war has not only devastated infrastructure and livelihoods but also dismantled fundamental freedoms, including the right to worship. Religious minorities such as Baha’is, Jews, and Christians, alongside Muslim sects outside the dominant factions, face increasing persecution. 

The collapse of state authority and the rise of armed groups have made Yemen one of the most hostile environments for religious freedom in the region. For many, the only option has been exile. 

Page 2 — Historical and Political Background 
Yemen has historically been home to a range of religious communities, though discrimination against minorities has long existed. Under authoritarian rule, religious tolerance was limited but communities managed to survive. 

The eruption of the civil war in 2014, however, shattered even these fragile protections. Houthi rebels, government forces, and extremist groups have all targeted minorities for persecution, while the collapse of legal and political structures has left worshippers with no recourse to justice. 

Page 3 — Forms of Religious Persecution 
Religious persecution in Yemen takes many forms: 

- Harassment and arrests: minorities detained without due process. 
- Forced conversions: intimidation and coercion used to suppress minority faiths. 
- Destruction of sites: places of worship, including churches and temples, destroyed or seized. 
- Discrimination: exclusion from education, jobs, and public services. 
- Exile: many minority groups forced to flee abroad for survival. 

These abuses demonstrate how religious freedom has collapsed amid the wider conflict. 

Page 4 — Consequences for Citizens and Society 
For individuals, the loss of religious freedom means fear, displacement, and loss of cultural identity. Families face separation as members are forced into exile, while those who remain endure constant surveillance and intimidation. 

For Yemeni society, the erosion of pluralism weakens national unity and narrows the cultural and spiritual fabric of the nation. Internationally, Yemen’s reputation is further damaged, with religious persecution adding to its record of human rights violations. 

Page 5 — Solutions and Conclusion 
Rebuilding religious freedom in Yemen will require a broad and inclusive approach. 

Key steps include: 
- Legal protections: enshrine religious freedom in Yemen’s constitution and laws. 
- Accountability: prosecute groups and individuals responsible for persecution. 
- Reconstruction: restore destroyed religious sites and communities. 
- Inclusion: ensure minority representation in political and social life. 
- International support: expand asylum options and humanitarian aid for persecuted groups. 

Until such measures are taken, religious freedom in Yemen will remain collapsed, and minority groups will continue to flee persecution amid the civil war.