The independent review will also map persecution against believers in "key countries" across the Middle East, Africa and Asia, and make recommendations for a "cohesive and comprehensive policy response".
Mr Hunt said: "So often, the persecution of Christians is a telling early warning sign of the persecution of every minority.
"...I have asked the Bishop of Truro to look at how the British Government can better respond to the plight of persecuted Christians around the world.
"We can and must do more."
In an op-ed first published in the @Telegraph @Jeremy_Hunt explains why he has commissioned the Bishop of Truro @pmounstephen to lead an independent review into the persecution of Christians globally. https://t.co/zkKTsHboI5
— Foreign Office (@foreignoffice) December 26, 2018
Approximately 215 million Christians faced discrimination or physical harm last year, according to Foreign Office officials who say there has been a "dramatic rise in violence" against followers of Christianity.
Bishop of Truro Rt Rev Philip Mounstephen, who will report back around Easter 2019, said the issue was "close to my heart".
#JeremyHunt has spoken up for persecuted Christians! https://t.co/UJCKXE75EI
— Open Doors UK ن (@OpenDoorsUK) December 26, 2018
He added: "Part of the Christmas story tells how Jesus was himself the victim of persecution so it seems particularly timely to launch this review at this season.
"I'll be taking an objective look at how the British Government can better respond to the pressing plight of persecuted Christians around the world."
The UK Government's response to persecution drew fresh attention earlier this year when ministers were urged to grant asylum to Asia Bibi - a Christian former death row inmate acquitted of blasphemy in Pakistan.
Henrietta Blyth, chief executive of Open Doors UK, said she was "delighted" by the announcement of a review.
CSW welcomes the @FCO announcement that Foreign Secretary @Jeremy_Hunt has ordered a review into the persecution of Christians around the world and how much assistance they receive from the UK.​ https://t.co/weBAi5G270
— CSW Advocacy (@CSWadvocacy) December 26, 2018
She added: "Persecution of Christians is a key issue of our time - we must act to be the voice for those who are so often voiceless because of the persecution they suffer.
"This review is a great first step and offers real hope for change at a time when UK trade is to be negotiated internationally.
"Through these negotiations the UK has an opportunity to ensure countries enshrine freedom of religion or belief and change attitudes in their societies so that all religious minorities can enjoy a better future."
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