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The Archbishop said: “We know it’s a phenomenon in many countries, not just as deplorable as anti-semitism, Islamaphobia or anything else that targets people precisely for their faith and

so, therefore must be addressed at the same level.” The Christian leader has also criticised the changing way news is shared as contributing factor for this growing issue. The archbishop

told BBC Radio 4 Today programme: “In the world of 280 characters on Twitter, and very quick news feeds, I think that is part of the problem. “You can’t have a hashtag that says ‘persecution

of Christians.. X, Y or Z.” Asked if he had come up with a suitable name or phrase, he said: “Not yet… this can’t be mine, I can’t own it alone.” In recent years there have been several

examples of persecutions against Christian followers, in Pakistan 75 people were murdered in a suicide bombing targeting Christians celebrating Easter Sunday in 2016. His comments come after

this week the government announced funding of £12 million to promote freedom of religion or belief around the world. Funded through UK Aid Connect, the programme will work with faith

groups, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and academics. The Prime Minister’s Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief, Lord Tariq Ahmad of Wimbledon has said this “money will go

along way” and will help “promote religious diversity”. He said: “This money will go a long way in bolstering the work of civil society and NGOs to promote respect, and the value of

religious diversity and tolerance. It will sit alongside the excellent work British diplomats do in flying the flag for human rights. “As the Prime Minister’s Special Envoy on Freedom of

Religion or Belief, I will ensure that the UK stands up for everyone’s right to practise or not practise a religion that is in line with their conscience, wherever they are in the world.”

International Development Minister Lord Bates said the announcement “underscores the government’s commitment to empowering people across the world irrespective of religion or belief and

builds on the Prime Minister’s pledge to tackle religious prejudice and intolerance in all its forms”.