Even in modern times new religions that might compete with established order are typically under threat of persecution. (religion.blogs.cnn.com)
An indication of a well - founded fear is the fact that an applicant has already been subject to persecution or serious harm or to direct threats of persecution or harm (article 4 under 4 of the Directive). (europeanlawblog.eu)
Of all the Christians, I've only heard of two families who converted under threat of persecution. (premierchristianity.com)