About the Bible Access Initiative
A comprehensive framework for assessing global Bible access and shortages.
Our Mission
To provide a reliable, global view of Bible Restrictions and Shortages to inform the fulfilment of the Great Commission.
What We Do
Strategic Research
Comprehensive research is used to identify and rank countries based on Bible access restrictions and shortage levels. This data-driven approach helps the Church to understand where the need is greatest and how to effectively allocate resources.
Global Collaboration
Bible agencies, mission organizations, funding agencies and others can use this research to coordinate efforts, share resources, and maximize impact.
Access Mapping
Interactive Bible Access List maps provide data on restrictions, population, and Bible availability and need across ranked countries, enabling informed decision-making for users.
Our Approach
Restrictions Ranking
Countries are assessed and ranked based on the severity of Bible access restrictions including restrictions imposed by government, religious extremists, or other actors (e.g., laws banning Bible printing or distribution); as well as socio-economic challenges (e.g., poverty, poor infrastructure, low literacy).
Shortage Assessment
Estimates the number of Christians who desire a Bible but lack one. Results are expressed in range-based estimates and countries are ranked accordingly.
Partnership Network
Partners in the Bible Access Initiative bring together distinct but complementary perspectives, combining empirical data, field-level experience, and a deep commitment to advance a shared goal: improving the global understanding of Bible Access and Bible Shortage.
Steering Partners
Steering Partners contribute strategic advice, research expertise, funding, and data. Bible League International, Digital Bible Society, Frontlines International, Voice of the Martyrs, and YouVersion are BAL's steering partners.
Research and Contributing Partners
Research and contributing partners provide data, expertise, and resources to the research. These include Biblica, Close the Bible Gap, OneHope, and Open Doors International.