Next week one of Rome's largest tourist stops will pay tribute to all Christians who have given their life for the faith.
The Washington Times has reported that the intention is to start a debate about the lack of religious freedom in some regions.
It said the "the systematic violation of the right to religious freedom, especially that of Christians, must become the central issue of the public debate."
A number of speakers will attend the event, including the Chaldean Catholic Bishop of Aleppo, Syria, Antoine Audo, and Cardinal Mauro Piacenza, the International President of Aid the Church in Need.
The pope has spoken about persecution during his time in leadership with a focus on modern day martyrs.
Pope Francis has called them "the lifeblood of the Church."
Earlier in April he said: "It is the witness of our martyrs of today – so many!
"Chased out of their homeland, driven away, having their throats cut, persecuted: they have the courage to confess Jesus even to the point of death."
Iraq and Syria are two countries in the world that are facing increased persecution towards Christians, as well as Nigeria, China and North Korea.
