Kazakhstan

How are Christians harassed, discriminated against and persecuted?

From the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991 until 2012, Christians enjoyed widespread freedom in Kazakhstan, which was even a center of mission in Central Asia. In 2012, a new religion law was passed in the country, making it more difficult for Christians to practice their faith. It requires both church and church building to be registered and requires at least 50 members for approval of a new church.

In addition, all religious activities must be conducted in the purpose-registered building, which means, for example, it is not allowed for a group of people to meet privately to read the Bible and pray without a public permit.

Preaching outside the church is also not allowed in Kazakhstan, and publishing religious literature without state approval is a criminal offense. Christians risk fines and imprisonment and a priest had to go all the way to the Supreme Court before he was acquitted of a fine for praying for a sick person. In addition, a pastor came under Wrongful accusation of making a woman mentally ill - a woman who was simply attending church services. Churches and services are monitored by the intelligence services.

Some churches share the gospel with the Muslim majority

Persecution particularly affects churches and Christians who insist on evangelizing - especially to the Muslim majority. When a Muslim converts to Christianity, they often face intense family pressure to reconvert. Some face reprisals.

Although persecution in the country is high, many come to faith and join the church. But there are also many who leave Kazakhstan due to the increasing persecution.

What does the Danish European Mission do

Danish European Mission donors ensure that persecuted Christians can provide bags of food and clothing to hungry children. The parents may be alcoholics and drug addicts. Christians help the poorest in society by providing hot meals and distributing bags of food and clothing to the poor. More Kazakhs are becoming curious about why Christians are helping them - and it opens their eyes to the Christian faith. It is also hoped that by seeing how the church helps the vulnerable, the authorities may realize that accepting the gospel of Jesus Christ and organizing society according to the words of the Bible makes a positive difference in their country.