How are Christians persecuted in Turkmenistan?
- Most people in Turkmenistan are Muslims. Those who take the courageous step of leaving Islam to follow Jesus can face immense opposition from their own families and communities.
- Women who decide to become Christians are particularly vulnerable to beatings, house arrest, verbal abuse, threats, rejection, abduction and forced marriage.
- Christian women can also face sexual violence, often with the aim of intimidating and distressing their husband, families and churches. Given the stigma and shame of such incidents, they are rarely reported, deepening the pain of our sisters and giving impunity to the perpetrators.
- Christians also face monitoring and restrictions from the totalitarian state, who particularly see Protestant Christians as extremists for going against government restrictions.
- Christians who run businesses can face discrimination and opposition in their work.
Why are Christians persecuted in Turkmenistan?
- Leaving Islam can be seen as a betrayal of family and community.
- Whilst all citizens are closely monitored by the state, those suspected of belonging to churches can face even greater scrutiny. Even Russian Orthodox and Armenian Apostolic churches can experience the watchful eyes of the authorities during their services.
- The state has placed strict restrictions on the possession of religious material.
- There is also a ban on private religious education, making it risky for children to hear about Jesus.
- Registering new churches is virtually impossible.
Who is particularly vulnerable in Turkmenistan?
- New believers are especially susceptible to persecution from their families and communities, particularly those living in rural areas of Turkmenistan.
- Opposition from the government is often focused on leaders from non-traditional denominations, such as Pentecostal and Baptist churches.
What has changed in Turkmenistan in the past year?
- Turkmenistan has dropped six places in the World Watch List. However, with the country’s authorities maintaining its tight grip, the challenges facing the country’s small number of Christians remain high.
- Thankfully, there were no reports of violent attacks against Christians in the past year.
How can I help Christians in Turkmenistan?
Please keep praying for your brothers and sisters in Turkmenistan. Your prayers make an enormous difference to those following Jesus no matter the cost.
Open Doors strengthens the church in Central Asia through numerous initiatives, including literature distribution, prayer support, presence ministry, livelihood support and women’s ministries.
Sovereign Lord, we praise You for the small but vibrant church in Turkmenistan. Continue to awaken, strengthen and enlarge it amidst various challenges. We particularly remember converts – empower them by Your Holy Spirit to withstand pressure and shine as beacons of light in their families and communities. And for the leaders who feel so burdened today – lighten their loads and bring them timely encouragement. Soften the hearts of the regime, we pray. Amen.
