Churches are often raided, and attendees may be threatened, arrested, or fined.
bottom"The constant danger and pressure for my faith and ministry exhausted me. I could hardly meet anyone or help people as a pastor."
– Azamat*
Despite being a secular state, Uzbekistan can be an enormously challenging place for its small pocket of Christians to express and share their faith. Churches can be hindered by cumbersome restrictions. This includes a recently introduced requirement to have a minimum number of members, but for small congregations it’s an impossible number to reach.
Churches that fail to fall in line with government protocols—through possessing “unauthorised” materials for example—are in danger of raids, arrests, threats, and heavy fines. It is a different story for Russian Orthodox churches that 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.
Church leaders in Uzbekistan are targeted by the authorities to intimidate congregations. Tactics include fines, arrest, physical abuse, and denial of exit visas.
As in many places worldwide, converts to Christianity are particularly exposed to persecution, especially those living outside the main urban centres. One hotspot of severe persecution is Fergana Valley, where traditional Islamic values and clan structures are strongest. Government hostility is largely reserved for church leaders, with an aim to cause an unsettling impact on the wider Christian community.
– That converts from Islam who face pressure from family, community, and government will receive God’s grace and hope.
– Church leaders often come under surveillance. Pray they can lead others without harassment or harm.
– Non-registered churches are targeted and raided. Ask God to protect believers who risk so much to meet and worship Him.
Open Doors strengthens the church in Central Asia through literature distribution, prayer support, presence ministry, livelihood support, and women’s ministries.
