Maldives

Key Facts:
Leader: President Gayoom
Population: 359,000 (few Christians)
Majority Religion: Islam
Type of Government: Republic

This multitude of tiny islands is one of the least evangelised countries on earth. All citizens must be Muslim.

Shariah law is observed. Islam is considered to be an important tool in stimulating national unity and maintenance of the government's power.

Conversion from Islam is prohibited. Converts can lose citizenship.

No churches can be opened, though foreigners are allowed to practise their religion in private as long as they do not encourage citizens to participate.

Prayer

• Uphold the handful of indigenous believers who keep their faith secret. They need great wisdom
• Ask God to grant the authorities a miraculous revelation of Jesus
• Bibles cannot be imported – apart from a copy for a tourist's personal use. Pray that God's Word would be opened to the Maldivian people.