Reform Movements

Supporting Christian-led reform movements striving for human rights and democracy in countries around the world

Just 200 years ago, only 6% of countries were democratic. Today, that number has soared to 72%. Human rights have expanded. Corruption has declined.

This progress didn’t come from the top down—it was driven by ordinary people rising up through peaceful reform movements. Time and again, Christians have been at the heart of those movements.

From the abolition of slavery to the founding of the first welfare states, Christians have helped reshape societies. They stood for political and prison reform, better working conditions, and the dignity of indigenous peoples. They protected Jewish communities during the Holocaust and championed justice across continents.

In the 20th century, Christians led the U.S. civil rights movement, helped topple dictatorships in the Philippines and Chile, and played key roles in ending communism in Eastern Europe and apartheid in South Africa.

Today, Christian reformers are still on the frontlines—standing for democracy, peace, and human rights in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and beyond.

The mission isn’t over.

If we want to see greater justice and stronger democracies, the most effective thing we can do is support these grassroots Christian movements. Arise partners with reformers around the world to amplify their voice and impact.

Get involved. Take action. Be part of the next chapter of change.
 

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