Churches in autoritarian regimes : a preliminary review of church development in three countries: South Africa during the apartheid regime, Ethiopia during the communist regime, and present day Egypt

Abstract

The aim of this study is to gain knowledge about oppression and persecution of Christians and churches. Three different countries and time periods are chosen: South Africa during the apartheid regime, Ethiopia during the communist regime and present day Egypt. The main questions discussed in the report are: 1. What form does oppression and persecution take, and what is the reason for oppression? 2. How do the churches cope with oppression and persecution, and what reason do they give for reacting as they do? 3. What role do international cooperating partners play and what reason do they give for their actions?