Myanmar

What does persecution look like in Myanmar?

Myanmar remains mired in a violent conflict that is having a devastating impact on the country’s Christian minority.

Since the military coup in February 2021, Christians have encountered greater violence and tighter restrictions. Believers have been killed and churches have been indiscriminately attacked, even well-established ones in predominantly Christian states like Chin and Kayah. More Christians than ever have been driven out of their homes and have found refuge in churches or IDP camps. Some are even forced to flee to the jungle where they are often deprived of access to food and health care.

Christians are part of the generally peaceful resistance movement, but fighting has increased across the country, and although not all ethnic minority armed groups are involved, some Christian ones are. Government forces have continued to disproportionally attack Christian villages and churches and also killed Christian aid workers and pastors, often in aerial attacks.

Beyond the conflict, converts to Christianity find themselves persecuted by their Buddhist, Muslim or tribal families and communities because they have left their former faith. Communities who aim to stay "Buddhist only" make life for Christian families impossible.

Non-traditional church groups experience opposition, too, especially those located in rural areas and those who are known for their evangelistic activities.

Who is most vulnerable to persecution?

In the past year, Myanmar’s civil war has become entrenched in areas with a significant Christian presence, such as Chin state. But the widespread nature of conflict, and the threat facing converts in places where the Christian influence is smaller, means that persecution is a very real risk for our sisters and brothers in different parts of the country.

Meet "Ko Aung"

“God taught me through His Word that all things happen for good. Since I have experienced persecution, I can now better understand the pain experienced by Christians suffering for their faith."

Ko Aung, forced to flee Myanmar after intrusive surveillance by the authorities

What has changed this year?

The military's increasing use of sophisticated technology, much of which comes from China and Russia, is presenting another challenge for believers in Myanmar. Those under suspicion are likely to face intrusive surveillance, making it difficult to escape the military's clutches. Christians also have to be mindful of what they say on the phone, while local partners must be careful in their communications and financial transactions. In the immediate onset of the coup in 2021, phone and internet lines were cut in Christian-majority areas to prevent news spreading of what was going on, and today, anyone who shares anything online about the authorities risks severe consequences.

What does Open Doors do to help Christians in Myanmar?

Working through local partners, Open Doors strengthens persecuted believers in Myanmar through literature distribution, discipleship and leadership programmes, livelihood support, and youth, children and families ministries.

How can you pray for Myanmar?

• Please pray that the Holy Spirit will comfort, sustain and empower believers amid the ongoing conflict and the threat of persecution.
• Pray for the protection of churches and Christians, and that believers will be given wisdom as they respond to different challenges.
• Ask for an end to the civil war. Pray that the ruling military will do more to bring justice and freedom for all.