As Americans headed to the polls Tuesday, the rest of the world watched to see who would become the 47th president of the United States. The election of Donald Trump affects many evangelical communities around the world in terms of foreign policy, foreign aid, religious freedom, and cultural trends. Nevertheless, Christian leaders in some countries noted that it didn’t make a difference to them who becomes the next president of the US.
CT asked 26 evangelical leaders around the world about their reaction to another Trump presidency and its practical impact on the situation of evangelicals in their countries. The responses are broken up by region: Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, North America, the Middle East, and Oceania. CT will add more responses as they come in.
AFRICA
Kenya
Nelson Makanda, president, Africa International University
On behalf of many like-minded evangelicals in Kenya, I congratulate the American people for electing Trump. We hope that his election will usher in a season where orthodox Christian beliefs are not frowned upon or criminalized by American state agencies.
We also hope that American institutions operating in Africa will freely engage with African people without pushing an immoral agenda. Africa wants to honor God and the laws of nature, and we hope that America under the president-elect will be tolerant of that. Our choices and freedoms should be respected.
We hope that our cultures and people will be treated as equal partners and deserving of mutual respect.
Nigeria
James Akinyele, secretary general, Nigeria Evangelical Fellowship
In light of Nigeria’s ongoing economic and political difficulties, this US election was not debated locally nearly as much as the prior two. For evangelicals, neither candidate was an easy option. Harris was considered more level-headed, but her strong support of abortion and LGBTQ rights made many uncomfortable. Trump’s moral stances resonated with our core evangelical convictions, but his own lack of morality and perceived white supremacy created some concerns. We hope he will become more open to immigration.
Some Nigerian Christian leaders said Trump’s victory is an answer to our prayers for a US president who will defend the Christian faith in Nigeria and around the world. Others said it should be accepted as God’s will, without positive or negative judgment. But just about everyone hopes he will become less controversial in his rhetoric and personal conduct. And many are sympathetic to his desire to protect America’s global interests, without being subservient to the rest of the world.
South Africa
Moss Ntlha, general secretary, Evangelical Alliance of South Africa
Trump’s win is a sad day for evangelicalism around the world. Prominent evangelicals in the US came out in full support of Trump, making it appear that to be Bible believing is to be Trump supporting. Their endorsement gives the impression that theological conservatism requires and leads to a right-wing political view that is dictatorial, opposes climate justice, sanctions genocide in the Holy Land, and approves what took place on January 6.
Many in South Africa who know the horrors of apartheid recognize how easily a populist politics that holds to a narrow vision of public morality can harm those on the margins. Trump already declared in his first term that African countries are “s—hole countries.” Lately, he has made it clear that when restored to the presidency, he would make sure that Israel has all it needs to “finish the job,” which many understand as the erasure of Palestinian existence.
We worry that having Trump in the White House will make it difficult to proclaim the gospel that “God so loved the world” that he sent Jesus to die for all, especially our Muslim neighbors. We worry that he will use the immense power of the US government to punish those who pursue foreign policies contrary to his own, such as South Africa for appealing to the International Court of Justice to adjudicate whether what we are witnessing in the Israel–Palestine conflict is genocide.
ASIA
Bangladesh
Philip Adhikary, chairman, Bangladesh Evangelical Alliance
The election of Donald Trump to the US presidency evokes mixed reactions. While Trump’s administration generally had a strong stance in favor of religious freedom, his foreign policies toward countries like Bangladesh were often pragmatic rather than overtly focused on the concerns of specific religious minorities. His “America First” approach and his support for religious liberty could signal both positive and challenging implications for Bangladeshi evangelicals.
However, US foreign aid, which sometimes comes with human rights conditions, might not dramatically shift in response to Trump’s priorities, especially if his administration prioritizes national interests over international human rights.
Practically, the impact of Trump’s presidency could include increased opportunities for religious NGOs in the form of aid. However, the rise of nationalist and anti-immigrant rhetoric in some Western countries during his tenure could embolden local opposition to evangelical efforts, potentially increasing societal pressure or persecution.
China
A house church pastor in China
Donald Trump’s presidency could impact Chinese Christians in a few key ways. His “America First” policy may lead to tighter visa controls, reducing Chinese students’ access to US education. This could be particularly challenging for Christian families in China who are homeschooling or sending their children to unregistered Christian schools. As attending college abroad is often their only option for higher education, these families may face difficult choices.
On the other hand, Chinese students who come to faith while living in the US may be more likely to return to China due to limited career opportunities in America, potentially strengthening local Christian communities.
Trump’s support from American evangelical groups, coupled with his controversial statements on democracy and freedom, may deepen divisions within Chinese Christian communities. His rhetoric and emphasis on national interests could provide ammunition for Chinese state media to further criticize Western democracy, potentially leading to more restrictions on religious freedoms in China.
If Trump imposes more tariffs or other economic pressure on China, that could lead to financial hardship for many families, thereby impacting Chinese Christians’ ability to support the church. However, such economic difficulties might also drive people to seek spiritual refuge, possibly increasing interest in the Christian faith.
India
Vijayesh Lal, general secretary, Evangelical Fellowship of India
I don’t expect many changes in the overall foreign policy trajectory under a new Trump administration, as India is a key strategic partner in balancing China’s growing influence in the region.
Many Christians in India and South Asia who lean Republican may welcome his return to office, but for the church in India, I don’t see any significant gains. The church in India doesn’t place its hopes in political leadership, whether in the US or in India.
Japan
Masanori Kurasawa, chair, Japan Lausanne Committee
I was disappointed that the election campaign was dominated by slander rather than policy debate. Trump’s discriminatory and unsubstantiated remarks about his opponents and immigrants was especially disappointing.
I don’t think Japanese evangelicals will be directly influenced by Trump. But we need to closely watch Trump’s policies in the coming months, which clearly express a vision of “America First.” Many Japanese Christians deeply repent of Japan’s Shinto-based nationalism and the church’s religious compromises during World War II. Thus, they are concerned about American nationalism and wary of American evangelicals sympathizing with its policies.
Nepal
Sher Bahadur A. C., general secretary, National Churches Fellowship of Nepal
The election of Donald Trump has brought a wave of optimism among Nepali Christians. For many, his victory is seen as good news, not only for the United States but also for Christian communities around the world.
Trump’s policies, which have shown a strong inclination to support religious freedom and global Christian causes, have made him popular among Nepali Christians. We hope that he will continue supporting Christians worldwide and stand with us in our efforts to practice our faith freely.
While we do not expect significant changes within Nepal, the global influence of the US government and the possibility of US diplomatic pressure if any actions are taken against Christians in our country could serve as a safeguard for religious minorities.
At the same time, the broader geopolitical dynamics must be considered. Trump’s administration has been known for its critical stance toward Communist governments, and Nepal is currently led by a Communist prime minister, Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli. Trump also has a close relationship with India, while Nepal is more aligned with China. This could potentially create tensions between Nepal and the Trump administration if Nepal deepens its ties with Beijing.
Philippines
Noel Pantoja, national director, Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches
With joyful hearts, we celebrate the victory of Donald Trump in the recent elections, recognizing that God has ordained him to lead the US. This moment fills us with hope, as it signifies a renewed commitment to religious freedom, allowing individuals to express their faith without fear or restriction.
The Philippine church is currently opposing Philippine Senate and Congress bills on sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression; same-sex marriage; and abortion. If passed, these bills will hurt the church, schools, and businesses. All of the lobbyists are supported by US and Western LGBTQ advocates, so Trump’s stance on these issues and victory in the election encourages churches in the US as well as the Philippines.
We are hopeful about the positive impact this administration will have on foreign policy, fostering peace and strengthening relationships with nations that share values of democracy. It is a victory not just for America but for God-fearing people around the world, especially in Asia, where God’s light can shine brighter through his own divine leadership.
Sri Lanka
Noel Abelasan, national director, Every Home Crusade
Trump’s win could positively impact evangelical Christians in Sri Lanka by promoting religious freedom and possibly directing US aid toward faith-based programs. This focus on Christian principles may embolden Sri Lankan Christians and support initiatives aligned with US priorities.
However, a strong stance against China could complicate Sri Lanka’s diplomatic position, given China’s influence in the region, which may indirectly affect local evangelical groups. Overall, it may deepen solidarity among evangelicals globally, inspiring Sri Lankan Christians to feel more connected to a shared movement.
Taiwan
Andrew Chiang, pastor, Bilingual Community Church
I don’t think Trump’s presidency will impact religious freedom in Taiwan at all in the short term. Trump’s support for conservative evangelical causes doesn’t affect people in Taiwan, so it’s unlikely to trigger any backlash from the more secular parts of society. In terms of aid and foreign policy, both Trump and Biden have pursued a China-containment policy, which is to Taiwan’s benefit as long as they don’t go too far and trigger war.
Trump’s presidency will probably have a greater impact on cultural and religious trends. Conspiracy theories, end-times alarmism, and false prophecies that have been rampant in the US since Trump’s first presidency have also spread to Taiwan. This will likely continue under his second presidency. How the evangelical church in Taiwan will react is hard to predict, but in some circles, his election has prompted more reflection on public and political theology. The evangelical church in Taiwan may gain its own voice, independent of the US evangelical church, as a result of the chaos it witnesses on the other side of the Pacific.
EUROPE
Armenia
Craig Simonian, Caucasus region coordinator, World Evangelical Alliance’s Peace and Reconciliation Network
I believe that Trump’s win and the return of the Republican party to congressional leadership is unquestionably good for Armenia.
While few people outside of political circles are aware, the Republic of Armenia has been a centerpiece of American foreign policy for more than 30 years due to its strategic position bordering Russia, Iran, and Turkey. But only since Azerbaijan’s 2020 war to reclaim the Armenian-populated enclave of Nagorno-Karabakh, which we call Artsakh, has the importance of Armenia become known to a wider audience—especially among evangelicals. Christians in the Caucasus Mountain region have been persecuted for millennia.
Much of this awakening is a result of Republicans using congressional committees and government commissions to champion Armenia. It became the world’s first Christian nation in AD 301, and it remains in need of protection against hostile neighbors. By contrast, while Democrats have faithfully promoted recognition of the Armenian genocide over the last 33 years, they have accomplished little more.
Now, with Trump back in the White House, we can expect Christian Armenia to emerge more fully as a new ally for the promotion of Western democracy in the region. God willing, it will become a new center for world missions as well.
Russia
Vitaly Vlasenko, general secretary, Russian Evangelical Alliance
Trump was the worthiest candidate, and I am glad that he won. But the idea that he has a close relationship with Vladimir Putin is overblown. While Russians welcomed his first presidency, many were disappointed and are now suspicious. Still, his election gives us new hope that things can be different.
I hope that Trump will support international dialogue, peace, and freedom of religion. He promised to end the war in Ukraine within 24 hours. He is not God, but if this happens soon, I will be very happy. Yet because Russia is not a satellite state of the United States, it is very difficult to predict how we will be affected until Trump has selected his complete presidential cabinet. For now, I am encouraged.
It is difficult to know how Trump will impact our Russian evangelical community. Mutual support between congregations in the US and Russia depends primarily on personal and interchurch relationships, not on who sits in the White House. Historically, American authorities have not objected to our dialogue but instead have positively contributed to it. As Trump has the support of most US evangelicals, I hope his team will continue this good tradition.
Turkey
Ali Kalkandelen, former chair, Association of Protestant Churches in Turkey
American policies related to this region have flooded our nation with refugees from Syria, Afghanistan, and Ukraine. If Israel expands its war toward Iran, it may threaten to involve Turkey. The Armenia–Azerbaijan conflict continues to fester, as it has been neglected by the US. And the Kurdish people have been seeking regional autonomy, confident that America backs them.
Our nation has been negatively affected politically and economically by these crises. We must pray for God’s mercy and wisdom for all world leaders. But Trump promises to change course and pursue peace in the region, which would be better and fairer for all. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan calls Trump “my friend,” and their relationship will likely strengthen our countries’ joint ties within NATO.
Although church members have suffered under the weight of these crises, they have also opened a new door for ministry. Many refugees have come to faith in Christ in Turkey, and our congregations include believers from Kurdish, Persian, and Arab backgrounds.
This spiritual transformation will continue and will strengthen the church. No American president can have a negative impact on this.
UK
Gavin Calver, CEO, Evangelical Alliance
We will once again have to respond to accusations from those who assume that British evangelicals marry politics and faith in the same way as those who carry the label of evangelical in the US. Politics and faith will always be connected to a degree, but the symbiotic relationship between one’s faith and one’s political persuasion, with evangelical often being perceived as a synonym for MAGA, has been hugely problematic for us in the UK.
In contrast, British evangelicals are by no means wedded to any political affiliation. Christians need to pray for and support their leaders, but they also need to take a stand against that which is wrong. Our primary loyalty must be to Jesus and not to a national leader.
I hope that the next Trump presidency may be different, that evangelicals in my country will not be wrongly assumed to be politically and nationalistically aligned, and that we can continue to be “good news” people in the UK.
Ukraine
Taras M. Dyatlik, engagement director, Scholar Leaders
I am deeply concerned about the potential impact of the US election results on our country’s defense against Russia’s unprovoked aggression. Ukraine relies heavily on US aid and foreign policy decisions, and I am afraid that a change in leadership could affect this crucial support.
It is troubling for me to see some Western evangelical leaders embracing narratives that minimize or justify Russian aggression, often stemming from sophisticated Russian propaganda campaigns. The notion that “the war will stop when Ukraine stops defending itself or when the West stops supporting Ukraine” rather than “the war will and should be stopped by making Russia leave Ukrainian territories” reveals a disturbing misunderstanding of reality.
The weaponization of Christian rhetoric and values for political purposes in both Russia and the US is also deeply concerning for me. When Christian values become too closely aligned with political powers, they are often distorted and misused to justify actions that harm the vulnerable.
I pray that regardless of US leadership and policies, the international community will continue supporting Ukraine’s fight for existence, democratic values, and human dignity.
LATIN AMERICA
Brazil
Cassiano Luz, executive director, Brazilian Evangelical Alliance
Donald Trump’s reelection carries significant implications for Brazilian evangelicals.
Trump is considered an ally and friend of Jair Bolsonaro, Brazil’s former president, who had widespread evangelical support. Convicted of political abuse of power and media misuse, Bolsonaro is currently ineligible for reelection in 2026 and faces investigations for money laundering, vaccine record falsification, and incitement of the 2022 insurrection that targeted the National Congress of Brazil and other government buildings in Brasília. Bolsonaro and his supporters celebrate Trump’s reelection, believing American political pressure might reverse his ineligibility in Brazil.
I believe one priority for us as the Brazilian evangelical church is to understand the factors shaping our ideological choices and positions. While many Brazilian evangelicals celebrate Trump’s reelection as being aligned with gospel principles, I prefer to echo the words of Ronaldo Lidório: The gospel is neither Democrat nor Republican; it aligns neither with Harris nor with Trump. The gospel is Jesus. “Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul” (1 Pet. 2:11).
Chile
Christian Maureira, general director, Martin Bucer Seminary
As an evangelical Christian in Chile, I view the election of Donald Trump positively, primarily because he has committed to preserving the Christian faith. Every election is a testament to God’s sovereignty, and the history of the church shows that God-fearing leaders contribute to eternal purposes. I hope that his administration will honor the principles found in the Holy Scriptures.
In areas like religious freedom, economy, social assistance, and foreign policy, Chilean evangelicals are unlikely to see major changes. Chile is geographically distant from the US and maintains stable diplomatic relations with the country.
Consequently, in Chile’s case, the election of Trump might resonate more in terms of cultural changes—such as the pro-choice movement or the US’s progressive agenda—as we know that laws passed in the US often have an influence here.
Mexico
Rubén Enriquez Navarrete, secretary, Confraternidad Evangélica de Mexico
Donald Trump has won the presidential election in the United States once again. While he may not be beyond reproach, he is a person who recognizes the origins and principles of the US as rooted in the God of the Bible. I believe God has allowed this for two reasons: to give churches greater opportunity to spread the gospel and to encourage reflection among those who have drifted away from God.
The migrant issue is a top concern for Mexican churches, and the outcome of the election will undoubtedly influence it. Mexican churches are organizing efforts to support migrants, especially at the border. For us, this isn’t a problem but an opportunity. Although many arrive here as nonbelievers, they often convert and, upon returning to their home countries, either share the gospel or support established churches.
For Mexican Christians, there isn’t a significant impact—only a sense of pride in knowing that in the US, evangelical pastors’ opinions are valued.
NORTH AMERICA
Canada
David Guretzki, president and CEO, The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada
Because of Canada’s geographical proximity, major political events in the US have a greater bearing on our political and social climate. For instance, when the US Supreme Court struck down Roe v. Wade, abortion became a hot topic again in Canada and led to promises by our government to ensure Canada wouldn’t go the same route.
There was much angst on both sides of the abortion debate, even though absolutely nothing had changed in our legal context. The overturning of Roe v. Wade stirred up in pro-life supporters a renewed desire to see new laws enacted, while pro-choice supporters sought to allow unfettered access to abortion.
Though there are always comparisons between US and Canadian politics, we seek to remind evangelical Christians that Canada’s historical, religious, social, and political context is unique.
The EFC is grateful that the US election was carried out freely and without violence or loss of life. Scripture enjoins us to pray for all those in authority, regardless of their political affiliation. In this regard, we ask all Jesus followers to observe this exhortation while demonstrating loving forbearance to those whose political views may differ from their own.
MIDDLE EAST
Egypt
Michael El Daba, Middle East and North Africa Regional Director for the Lausanne Movement
As the world awaited the results of the US election, many Egyptian Christians were in prayer for peace. War surrounds our borders in Gaza, Libya, and Sudan, and our government has added to the problem with policy decisions that have led to inflation and unprecedented debt. Tourists are afraid to visit, while refugees have found safe haven here.
Whether for local human rights or regional peace and stability, the Biden administration has done little to help. We do not expect Trump to be much different—at least as concerns the Egyptian people. He will pursue a highly transactional approach with regional allies, including Egypt, that emphasizes arms sales, business deals, and security cooperation, while largely ignoring values-based political and diplomatic engagement. Trump will probably neglect even gentle admonitions on human rights and political freedoms.
On a positive note, the robust American evangelical backing of Trump may help Egyptian evangelicals have a stronger local voice. If Trump pursues an agenda of international religious freedom, we can contribute to the campaign for minority rights. This might further open the public square for Christian political participation and overcome administrative hurdles in the construction of church buildings.
Iran
Mehrdad Fatehi, founder and executive director, Pars Theological Centre
Note: Fatehi is from Iran and currently based in the UK.
For most Iranians, a Trump presidency is great news. Trump put the Iranian regime under pressure through sanctions, weakening the regime economically. Under his leadership, US forces killed Qassem Soleimani, the second most powerful man in Iran, who spent billions of dollars supporting Hamas, Hezbollah, and other Iranian proxies. Many Iranians hope these tough policies will continue.
Democrats, by contrast, have appeased the Iranian regime, helping it stay in power. In shaking hands with Islamist leaders, they close their eyes to the undermining of human rights. But there is hope in the eyes of most Iranians that Trump will help Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu attack Iran so that the Iranian nation can overthrow the government when it is at its weakest.
The Islamic regime is scared right now, wondering how Trump will deal with Iran. But there is also a general fear of war—which will bring harm to the country and may not result in the outcome people hope for. Most Iranian believers, who come from a Muslim background, likely share the above outlook. Their situation of persecution is harsh enough that any response by Trump would not make things worse.
For many, Trump gives Iranians the best chance for positive change.
Israel
Danny Kopp, chairman, Evangelical Alliance Israel
Many pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian evangelicals who are otherwise opposed to each other on US policy in the region are ironically united in their hope that a Trump presidency will be an improvement over the Biden administration. And yet if there’s one thing that can be said with confidence about Trump, it is that he will be unpredictable. He is just as capable of backing a dramatic escalation in the use of force against Israel’s enemies as he is of demanding a rapid cessation of hostilities that some would consider a capitulation.
In general, Messianic Jews don’t have any expectations that Trump will specifically address their internal issues as Messianic Jewish citizens of Israel. They are too small a demographic for him to form a specific policy toward. Like their fellow citizens, they are almost entirely consumed with how Trump’s administration will or will not support Israel in its current seven-front war.
A second Trump administration may indeed embark on a welcome effort to expand the Abraham Accords to include Saudi Arabia and perhaps even Palestine in establishing peace agreements with Israel. However, if the United States abandons its allies in Ukraine and Southeast Asia to Russian and Chinese aggression, respectively, it will only embolden that very axis that—chiefly through Iran and its proxies—has been the main instigator of violence in Israel, Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Iraq.
Lebanon
Wissam al-Saliby, president, 21Wilberforce Global Freedom Center
Note: Saliby is from Lebanon and currently based in the US.
The people of my home country historically do not see much difference between the policies of Republicans and Democrats concerning Israel and Lebanon. However, many Lebanese in Lebanon and in the US supported the election of Donald Trump because they prefer the “unknown” of his presidency over the current administration’s policies, which have permitted the war in the Middle East to continue and to expand.
Regardless, this region is being emptied of its Christian population because of war—first Iraq, then Syria, and now Lebanon. Many of my friends and family have left. And the Palestinian Christians in the West Bank continue to lose their lands and livelihood to Israeli settlers.
We urgently need a peace process that addresses the genuine grievances and the injustice at the root of the conflict, and we’ve never had that to date.
Furthermore, the destruction of Gaza and now of large parts of Lebanon has badly eroded US credibility. If the US administration reached out to a Muslim-majority country to call out the persecution of Christians in that country, the answer they would hear is “First, stop the war in Gaza; then, come back and ask us about our own human rights record.”
Palestine
Jack Sara, president, Bethlehem Bible College
US policy has had a complex and often contentious influence here, with decisions from the White House affecting our daily lives and futures in profound ways.
Trump’s support for policies favoring Israeli expansion and his disregard for the rights of Palestinians raise concerns. This could mean further marginalization for Palestinians and an even more challenging environment for Christians striving to live out their faith in this volatile context.
Trump has received significant support from many evangelicals, despite policies that appear to contradict the core values of justice, mercy, and humility that Scripture calls us to uphold. I suspect that much of this support is rooted in a misguided theological and political ideology—Christian Zionism—that sees unquestioning allegiance to the state of Israel as a biblical mandate. Many evangelicals may view Trump as the protector of Israel, perhaps overlooking his former administration’s disregard for the rights of Palestinians and the broader consequences for peace in the Middle East.
However, I hold on to hope and remain prayerful. I hope the Trump administration might work to stop the genocidal war in Gaza as well as the ground invasion and widespread bombing campaign in Lebanon. I hope Trump will work toward a peace that genuinely respects the rights and dignity of all people in the Holy Land and the region.
OCEANIA
Australia
Simon Smart, executive director, Centre for Public Christianity
On one level, another Trump presidency doesn’t have much bearing on evangelicals in Australia, which has a very different religious landscape compared to the US. But to the extent that it plays into a Christian desire to garner as much political power as you can to achieve your ends, it may not be helpful in the long run. History shows that frequently—but not always—Christian faith and political power don’t mix well. That’s a lesson that seems hard to learn.
Australia is a more secular country than the United States. For those of us trying to promote the public understanding of the Christian faith here, the now decades-long association of the term evangelical with a brand of politics that the majority of Australians view negatively hasn’t helped the cause. We need to engage with some perceptions that are impediments to a constructive conversation about faith.
Reporting by Angela Lu Fulton, Bruce Barron, Franco Iacomini, Isabel Ong, Jayson Casper, and Surinder Kaur
