Turkmenistan

What does persecution look like in Turkmenistan?

Turkmenistan is a former soviet state, and it's still ruled by an authoritarian government that heavily monitors the population - especially religious groups. 

There are many restrictions to how Christians can live out their faith in Turkmenistan. Printing or importing Christian materials, holding unofficial meetings, or even downloading
Christian songs can result in a fine or a worse punishment. Christian leaders are the most closely observed. Even the country's historical Russian Orthodox and Armenian Apostolic churches can find their Sunday services being monitored.

The majority of people in Turkmenistan are Muslims - people who become Christians from this background are at risk of being shamed, harassed, disinherited or even beaten by their family, friends or community.

Who is most vulnerable to persecution?

The state violates the rights of all Christians but monitors church leaders especially heavily. Believers from Muslim backgrounds also face persecution from their communities.

Meet "Zaida"

I cannot live without Jesus. I cannot deny Him, even if it means being persecuted. God gives me the comfort and desire to pray even more for my relatives and community who do not yet know Jesus.

Zaida, a woman who came to faith in Central Asia and is now threatened by her own son

What has changed this year?

The situation in Turkmenistan is stable, with only minor changes in some areas of pressure and violence in the country. Yet Christians face adversity in many areas of life for followers of Jesus. State agents constantly monitor churches and Christians. Muslim families and friends; and villagers also exert pressure on converts.

What does Open Doors do to help Christians in Turkmenistan?

Open Doors strengthens the church in Central Asia* by providing relief aid, Bibles, ministry training, prayer support, vocational training and business microloans, as well as projects such as rehabilitation centres.

For security reasons, the name of Open Doors cannot be associated with certain activities in this country.  When communicating about projects in this country, do not use the country name. Instead, use the region name: Central Asia.

How can you pray for Turkmenistan?

• The church in Turkmenistan lacks unity. Pray for unity among Christians and their leaders. 
• Ask God to make a way for His Word and other Christian materials to reach believers hungry for Scripture.
• Many church leaders in Turkmenistan are monitored by the authorities. Pray they will be protected and that they will lead with grace and peace.