Central Asia

Kazakhstan is a Muslim nation where most follow a folk Islam influenced by shamanistic practices. About 12% are Christians, mostly Orthodox. The traditionally recognized religious groups are allowed to operate freely but the evangelicals are regarded as a dangerous sect with increased persecution.

Kyrgyzstan has a cultural identity tightly associated with its Islamic faith with many continue to practice ancestor worship. The Occult, demonic forces, and shamans also hold many in further bondage. Christianity (5%), mainly Orthodox exists with Protestant congregations and unregistered house churches.

Tajikistan has 84% of its population living in poverty with majority Muslims. More than 1 million men currently working outside the country and leave behind local villages inhabited by women, children, and the elderly.  There are only about 1,000 Christians.

Turkmenistan legally recognized only 2 religions, Sunni Islam (89%) and Russian Orthodoxy (9%). There are about 1,000 Christians. Unregistered religious gatherings are forbidden and persecution is prevalent.

Uzbekistan has approximately 84% Muslims and less than 1% Christians.  All churches must be registered with the government. Unregistered churches are facing persecution, arrest, and torture.

Afghanistan is 99.9% Muslim where 40% are under the age of fourteen. It is ruled by Taliban with about four million orphans and has the highest opium production rate in the world. There are zero church buildings and any belief contrary to Islam is illegal where many believers face great persecution.