The United States government has released an updated list of nations designated as Countries of Particular Concern (CPC) — a classification for nations accused of committing severe violations of religious freedom under the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA) of 1998.
The list, signed by U.S. President Donald Trump, includes Nigeria, which was redesignated following allegations of widespread persecution and violence against Christians.
Trump’s latest move comes after mounting pressure from U.S. lawmakers, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, urging the administration to address what they described as “systemic religious oppression” in Nigeria and other countries.
The designation, which mandates the U.S. Congress to consider diplomatic or economic actions, allows Washington to adopt measures ranging from public condemnation and sanctions to restriction of aid and security assistance.
Countries currently on the U.S. “Countries of Particular Concern” list include:
Burma (Myanmar)
People’s Republic of China
Cuba
Eritrea
Iran
North Korea (DPRK)
Nicaragua
Pakistan
Russia
Saudi Arabia
Tajikistan
Turkmenistan
The CPC designation was last updated on December 29, 2023, by the U.S. Secretary of State.
Nigeria’s re-inclusion marks the second time it has appeared on the list, following its first designation in 2020 before being removed during the Biden administration.
Countries on the list may face diplomatic pressure, suspension of aid, or restrictions on trade and defense partnerships until significant improvements in religious freedom are recorded.
