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LaosLaos is the only other Communist-ruled country in the top 10 of the WWL (with North Korea). Despite many people's expectations, the situation in Laos has not improved much since the previous report. The church is relatively small but continues to grow (about 200,000 believers, mostly belonging to ethnic minorities). There was no improvement in religious liberty in the reporting period. Persecution in Laos includes a few restrictions in legislation. The government's attitude is very negative and restrictive towards Christians, and all believers are under strict surveillance because they are regarded as agents for the USA to bring political change in Laos towards 'democracy.' The church cannot operate freely and its activities in society are limited. Christians are restricted in their roles in the family and in the village. Christian converts who renounce evil spirit worship come under great societal pressure. From time to time believers are arrested, and many of them experience extreme physical and emotional pressure (torture) to renounce their (new) faith. In the reporting period at least 25 Christians were killed; at least another 20 were arrested and held without trial. Christians were physically harassed on a regular basis and a number of churches were destroyed or damaged. Thousands of (Christian) Hmong refugees are living in Thailand. Despite the high level of persecution in Laos, there are many unregistered activities and the church seems to be growing. |
