The christian minority of Northern Syria
The christian minority of Syria accounts for about 10% of the country's population. With the Syrian conflict running its 3rd year and with radical Islamic groups gaining power and influence, many christians choose to leave from areas that are under the control of the Islamists and seek refuge in government held areas or in Europe. In the province of Al Hasakeh in Northern Syria the christian minority chose to remain, despite the fact that the government withdrew the majority of its forces and work alongside the Kurds, who constitute the majority ethnic group of the area, in fighting the Islamists. With many members of the community leaving for Europe, in search of safety and a better life, the ones who remain are forming their own militias and are preparing for the worst.