Many Christians ‘spiritually abused’
An online survey by Bournemouth University received 1,591 responses from Christians of all denominations. 1,002 said they had experienced spiritual abuse. Caution has been expressed about these figures, not least because existing work on spiritual abuse is in its infancy, even though it is a commonly-used term. Being spiritually abused was not a prerequisite for participation in the survey, but some may have taken the opportunity to share their story anonymously, possibly for the first time. 72% of those who responded to the survey said they knew what it meant, with key characteristics identified as coercion, manipulation, pressuring and control through the misuse of religious texts and scripture. Many respondents said that clearer policies were needed in churches and Christian organisations.
France: refugees still sleeping rough
President Macron said he wanted refugees ‘off the streets’ by 2018, but there are still a thousand of them sleeping rough on Paris streets. Solidarithé provide them with coffee, blankets, and information. A Solidarithé volunteer said that Macron wanted to make the problem invisible, but refugees are just hiding in smaller groups throughout north Paris and Calais. The police order them to move on, and even spray them with tear gas. Refugees’ tents are slashed and sleeping bags and blankets are stolen - anything to stop people sleeping on the streets. It is winter, and health problems are getting worse. Macron has said France is a terre d’accueil (land of welcome), but refugees have no toilets or blankets. If they sleep on the pavement they have to do so standing up. Also 700 migrants are living rough in Calais. See
Europe: freedom of press being eroded
In general, Europe respects democratic standards and human rights, and has generally continued to do so in recent years despite serious economic turmoil. Nevertheless, many countries are developing problems related to their treatment of immigrants and minorities, and press freedom faces threats in a number of countries. Some governments are working to take control of the flow of information. Recently in Moldova an accredited journalist was prevented from attending a series of public events, despite court rulings affirming the right of access to public information. Such an action, alongside favouring other journalists, raises serious concerns about Moldova president Dodon's commitment to government transparency and freedom of expression as core democratic values.
Worsening violence in CAR
Violent flare-ups in Central African Republic (CAR) have sent thousands fleeing for their lives. The UN said that over 5,000 refugees have arrived in southern Chad since 27 December, fleeing from north-western CAR. Over 75,000 people were already in camps before the recent influx; many walked long distances to escape violence. Although the border is officially closed, as a humanitarian gesture authorities are allowing refugees to cross. Widespread human rights abuses are being reported, and UNHCR said that over 1.1 million people have been displaced, both within the country and as refugees. Because of the fighting, Médecins sans Frontières (MSF) has had to suspend its work in the seven health centres in outlying districts of Paoua. An estimated 30,000 who fled dangerous outlying areas are now taking refuge in Paoua. See
