40. Kyrgyzstan
Region
Asia
Christian population
207 000 (3%)
Main relegion
Islam
Main threats
• Dictatorial paranoia
• Islamic oppression
• Clan oppression
Christians in Kyrgyzstan continue to face strong opposition from their families and communities, while hostility from the authorities has intensified with the introduction of tighter religious controls.
The repercussions facing those who have courageously left Islam to follow Jesus can be severe. They can include house arrest and physical violence, and the children of converts can encounter bullying at school. Imams are sometimes enlisted to preach against converts, which can lead to their expulsion from the community. In some parts of the country, the influence of the local Muslim community may mean that vulnerable Christians can’t rely on local authorities for protection and justice.
New laws governing religion have stifled the expression of local churches, including unattainable requirements for simply registering a church. Protestant groups – who can be deemed “extremist” – are especially affected. Russian Orthodox churches are largely left alone because of their more insular nature.
Total score
68%
Pressure
72.7%
Violence
45.6%
Please pray
-
Pray for believers to have courage and wisdom as they navigate a new series of religious laws that many observers say will target religious minorities, including Christians.
-
Ask God to protect and sustain those who convert from Islam to Christianity as it can lead to heavy persecution for some converts.
-
Pray that God will shield house churches who can experience infiltration by security forces and that they remain focused on Him.