Global Scans · Religion · Weekly Summary

WHAT'S NEXT?: Huge growth is expected over the next several decades as the world's Muslim population grows faster than every other major religious demographic, and as urbanization and rising incomes in developing countries with large Muslim populations mean more will be buying, rather than producing their own food.

• [New] President Trump has designated Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern and has justified the threat of U.S. intervention based on the Christian genocide narrative that has recently gained traction in conservative circles. Time
• [New] The establishment of a professional army that both responds to civil control and protects all of the Syrian people, regardless of ethnic, religious, or sectarian background, will be necessary to ensure Syria's long-term stability in the wake of Syria's civil war. American Enterprise Institute - AEI
• [New] While religious tourism remains at the core of its tourism agenda, developing more diverse and affordable tourism products will be essential for Saudi to achieve its ambitious 150-million-visitor target by 2030. Nasser Saidi & Associates
• [New] The Christian charity the Just Money Movement has criticised the UK government's spending review for its deep cuts to disability benefits and overseas aid, which it says will herald tough times for many of the most vulnerable people in the world. Religion Media Centre
• [New] Pray for Christian pastors in many other countries around the world such as Iran, Eritrea, Nigeria, Laos and Algeria who face daily discrimination, threats of violence, and arrest. Release International
• [New] A Romanian man has pleaded guilty to orchestrating a years-long swatting and bomb threat conspiracy that endangered over 75 public officials, journalists, and religious institutions across the U.S., prompting armed law enforcement responses to fabricated emergencies. AMATAS
• [New] Religious groups call for mutual respect and social cohesion, warning against letting overseas conflicts divide Singapore and threatening the safety of anyone. ST
• [New] President Trump has threatened to send troops to Nigeria, where he says Christianity faces an existential threat, an accusation that Nigeria has denied. The New York Times
• [New] The research indicates that the younger generation will shape religion in Britain by depending less on tradition or institutional presence and more on its ability to meet the practical, emotional, and ethical needs of a generation seeking meaning, resilience, and agency in an uncertain world. Religion Media Centre
• [New] US President Donald Trump has threatened to carry out attacks in Nigeria in response to purported anti-Christian violence, saying he instructed the recently renamed Department of War to prepare for possible action. Al Jazeera
• [New] China's revised Religious Affairs Regulations created a framework where all religious practice must take place within the CCP's tightly controlled venues, or it could be deemed illegal. NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR DEMOCRACY
• Germany's federal drug commissioner, Hendrik Streeck of the Christian Democrats (CDU), has called for a return to stricter cannabis regulations, warning of abuse and health risks among young people. Deutsche Welle
• Turning Point USA has developed a powerful brand independent from Trump that will continue to be a platform for Christian nationalism. Euronews
• Amendments to the Northern Territory's anti-discrimination laws that the Country Liberal Party government claims will restore freedom of speech and religion have passed parliament. Australian Broadcasting Corporation
• The Palestinian Authority (or any other Palestinian government) will need to dismantle terror networks and end Palestinian incitement in schools, religious institutions, and the international arena. Foreign Affairs Magazine
• Texas public schools will begin the 2025-2026 academic year under a host of new state laws affecting student conduct, curriculum, religious displays, library content, and school safety. Texas Border Business
• Regional focal points in Eastern Europe, the Middle East and the Korean Peninsula are projected to remain in a turbulent state, with ongoing conflicts fueled by religious / ethnic complicatedness, historical resentments and power struggles. Diplomatist
• Myanmar junta attacks on Hsipaw and other resistance-held towns in northern Shan are endangering irreplaceable historic and religious sites. The Irrawaddy
• Factors such as corruption, socioeconomic inequity, and ignorance among Russian officials regarding Islam could end up fueling radicalism rather than deterring it. The Washington Institute
• The changing dynamics of religious affiliation in the United States signal a significant cultural shift that will likely continue to evolve in the coming years. The UNN

Last updated: 17 November 2025