Tajikistan

The persecution of Christians in Persian-speaking Tajikistan is mainly driven by the government. The ruling elite will do anything to stay in power, organised corruption is rampant and the authorities focus their attention on Christians. Church registration is obligatory and can only be obtained after a long, cumbersome and often arbitrary process. In July 2012, Tajik citizens were prohibited from going abroad in order to receive religious education, preach and teach religious doctrines, or establish ties with foreign religious organisations.

• For churches that experience government raids and Christians who may be physically harmed or have to leave their villages  
• The importation and distribution of religious literature is tightly controlled. Pray for protection for those delivering God’s Word to His people 
• For youth work, which must now be done in secret; a new law prohibits any religious activity for those aged under 18.