25. uzbekistan
Region
Asia
Christian population
395 000 (1.1%)
Main relegion
Islam
Main threats
• Dictatorial paranoia
• Islamic oppression
• Clan oppression
Despite being a secular state, Uzbekistan can be an enormously challenging place for its small pocket of Christians to express and share their faith.
Cumbersome and unattainable restrictions can hinder churches. This includes a recently introduced requirement for churches to have a minimum number of members, yet for small congregations, that number is impossible to reach. Churches that fail to comply with government protocols – for example, by possessing “unauthorised” materials – are at risk of raids, arrests, threats, and heavy fines. It’s a different story for Russian Orthodox churches: they rarely encounter problems because of their limited engagement with the native Uzbek population.
Converts from Islam can face strong opposition from their families and community, particularly those living in rural regions where Islamic and clan identity is strong. Unsurprisingly, many believers feel forced to keep their faith secret.
Total score
73%
Pressure
82.6%
Violence
22.2%
Please pray
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Pray that churches and church leaders, who often come under surveillance by authorities, would be able to lead others without harassment or harm.
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Ask God to protect believers who risk targeting and raids on non-registered churches simply to meet and worship Him.
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Ask that converts from Islam in Uzbekistan, who are often pressured by family, community and government to recant, will receive God’s grace and hope.