Vietnam | June 13, 2024
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In Vietnam's more remote areas, villagers follow traditional ethnic-animist religions, and persecution towards anybody who becomes a Christian from this background is fierce. Believers can have their homes destroyed and be expelled from the community.
Local authorities crack down on Christian meetings, evangelism or Bible teaching. They may break up church services and detain, threaten, fine and sometimes imprison church leaders, ordering them not to speak about Jesus anymore. They are particularly suspicious of Christians from minority ethnic groups such as the Hmong. Despite this, Hmong Bible teachers bravely travel miles by motorbike into remote areas to train believers in secret Bible schools.
The historical Roman Catholic churches enjoy more freedom than other denominations and groups but can still face interference by the state. Like all Vietnamese people, these Christians are still likely to be imprisoned if they speak out on political issues.
People who become Christians from Buddhist or traditional religious backgrounds face the greatest persecution from their own communities, and also from local authorities who are already suspicious of these minority people groups.
The villagers and the local authorities came and beat us... one of the officials tasered me. But because God loves me, then I will love others. I do not hate the ones who persecute me; I pray for them, and I love them so.
Vahn, a church pastor in Vietnam.
Vietnam fell by nine places on this year's World Watch List compared to last year. The government has sought to strengthen its diplomatic relations with the Vatican, which is best evidenced by the appointment of the first resident papal representative in December 2023. However, the Catholic Church is still monitored and suffers various forms of oppression.
Most alarming is the increased oppression of unregistered churches in Vietnam. There's a concern that the government wants to control the church and is pushing for smaller churches to join recognised denominations that are more cooperative with the government.
Additional concerns raised by churches and religious organisations include increased reporting and registration requirements, tighter control on foreign-linked activities, restrictions on religious gatherings, expanded government oversight on training and education, and the potential for broader surveillance.
Open Doors works through local partners to strengthen persecuted believers in Vietnam by providing relief and practical aid, advocacy support, Christian resources, leadership and discipleship training, and socio-economic development projects.
Father God, thank You for the courage and determination of Vietnam's Christian leaders, who give everything to train and encourage their brothers and sisters in the most remote places. Please meet their needs every day, and give them joy when they see the fruit of their labours. We pray You will keep the local authorities from noticing church meetings, and make the villages places of peace. In Jesus name, Amen.
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