2.6.3. Converts

Conversion from Islam to other faiths is not explicitly prohibited by law.495 However, Muslims who convert to Christianity are not permitted to change their religious affiliation on government-issued documents and remain registered as Muslims.496 A high-profile Christian church leader stated that while converts may be formally protected by law, they could face retaliation from family or society, and perpetrators of such acts may face only limited legal consequences such as imprisonment for around three months.497

According to an international organisation interviewed by the DIS in September 2025, there are no known cases of Muslims converting to Christianity in government-controlled areas, likely because individuals would avoid revealing such conversions due to their sensitive nature and possible repercussions.498 A Church organisation interviewed by DIS stated that conversion to Christianity remains a sensitive issue in government-controlled areas of Syria and would likely provoke hostility.499 Christian proselytising is considered unlikely despite the absence of a formal ban500, as authorities are reportedly unable to fully control radical elements within their ranks and in society, exposing anyone attempting to convert others to potential attacks.501

In contrast, several conversions to Christianity have reportedly occurred in Kurdish-controlled areas in northeastern Syria without resulting in consequences for the converts.502 American evangelical churches reportedly operate openly in Kurdish-controlled areas and authorities do not sanction converts, although individuals may still face pressure or repercussions from conservative family members.503