South ASia

Maldives has Islam as its official and only religion; the rest are considered illegal. No mission work or Christian literature is legally allowed. Widespread traditional beliefs in spirits combined with Islam leave many live in fear.

Pakistan has 95% Muslims with majority Sunni and less than 2% are Christians. Religious freedom is guaranteed under the constitution but believers still face extreme persecution. 35% of the people are living in poverty.

Bangladesh is a democratic republic with majority Muslim (89%) and a third of the nation being flooded yearly during monsoon rains. Christians (1%) face persecution and oppression although religious freedom is guaranteed.

Nepal has more than 25% of the people live in poverty. Majority are Hindus (80%) and Buddhists (10%). Religious freedom is legal but restrictions are imposed on non-Hindu groups. Christian believers are at risk for fines and even imprisonment for proselytizing.

Bhutan is a Buddhist nation and other religions are not recognized. Those who practice other faiths can lose their citizenship and government benefits. Churches are forbidden and believers are subject to prejudice, harassment, and even physical violence.

Sri Langka is a Buddhist nation with freedom of religion guaranteed by law. The 8% mostly Catholic Christian still face violence and persecution.

India has about 22% of its population lives in poverty. Majority are Hindus (74%) and only 5% Christians.  The spreading of Gospel is hindered by the Anti-conversion laws and also persecution.