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, and the country even served as a center for missions in Central Asia. In 2012, a new religion law was adopted in the country, making it more difficult for Christians to practice their faith. According to this law, both the church and the church building must be registered, and a minimum of 50 members is required for the 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.

It is also not permitted to preach outside of registered church buildings in Kazakhstan, and it is punishable by law to publish religious literature without state approval. 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

The persecution particularly affects churches and Christians who insist on evangelizing, especially towards the Muslim majority. When a Muslim converts to Christianity, they often face intense pressure from their family to reconvert. Some are subjected to reprisals. Despite opposition, many come to faith and join the church.

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 or 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.