Standing with Persecuted Christians: An Interview with Tristan Azbej
Hungary Takes Lead in Aid for Persecuted Christians
In the face of mounting persecution of Christians around the world, with many European and Western leaders turning a blind eye, Hungary has stepped up to provide assistance and aid to those in need. State Secretary for the Aid of Persecuted Christians, Tristan Azbej, shared the harrowing stories of crisis-hit communities in Africa and the Middle East that he has visited.
The decision to establish a government department in Hungary dedicated to helping persecuted Christians was rooted in both values and humanitarian principles. With over 300 million persecuted Christians worldwide, Hungary recognized the urgent need to address the dire situation faced by these communities.
The Hungary Helps program, launched in 2017, aims to support Christian humanitarian missions globally. While the focus is on assisting persecuted Christians, the program also extends aid to other vulnerable communities in need, guided by principles of compassion and solidarity.
The Hungarian government’s commitment to aiding persecuted Christians stems from a deep-rooted understanding of the historical and contemporary struggles faced by Christian communities. The memory of past oppression in Hungary, coupled with the alarming rise of persecution in the Middle East and Africa, prompted swift action to establish a dedicated state secretariat to address the crisis.
Current projects under the Hungary Helps program include providing support to Christian institutions in regions ravaged by conflict and violence. From Iraq to Nigeria, Hungary is actively engaged in delivering humanitarian aid to communities facing persecution and displacement.
Despite Hungary’s efforts to inspire European partners to join in aiding persecuted Christians, some countries have shown reluctance or indifference to the cause. However, there have been positive collaborations with countries like Poland, Italy, Austria, and Cyprus, where initiatives to support persecuted religious communities, including Christians, have been launched.
In addition to its global outreach, Hungary is also addressing the rise of anti-Christian sentiment within Europe itself. Violent attacks and ideological opposition to Christian values pose a growing threat to European Christians, necessitating a proactive response to safeguard their rights and freedoms.
As Hungary continues to champion the cause of persecuted Christians, the government emphasizes the importance of international cooperation and solidarity in standing up for those facing discrimination and hardship. By providing aid, raising awareness, and advocating for the rights of persecuted communities, Hungary sets an example of compassion and support in a world marred by indifference and silence.
