*ARCHIVED OCTOBER 2007 // CLICK HERE FOR CURRENT DATA

Turkmenistan (click here to view a satellite map)

Turkmenistan, Central Asia

Population: 4,952,081
Christians: 2-3%
Dominant Religion: Sunni Islam
Persecution Ranking: 13th
Political Leader: President Saparmurat  Niyazov
Religious Freedom in Constitution: Yes

Turkmenistan's religious policy is the most repressive of all the former Soviet republics, and Protestant Christians are among religious groups whose activity is deemed illegal. Only communities of the Sunni Muslim Board and the Russian Orthodox Church have been allowed to gain state recognition.
The constitution and the Law on Freedom of Conscience and Religious Organizations provide for freedom of religion; however, in practice the government restricts these rights. There is no state religion, but the majority of the population is Sunni Muslim. The government has incorporated some aspects of Islamic tradition into its efforts to redefine a national identity; however it places some restrictions on Muslims. In practice, the government closely controls and monitors all religious activities. Some members of minority religions claim that law enforcement officers torture and abuse their members.
Christianity is illegal and Believers are under threat, denied employment, public services, housing, etc. Evangelical Christians often have to face fines and imprisonment for meeting together, harassment from the police, discrimination such as not being allowed to attend University, and are often not allowed Christian literature in their own language. A lack of Bible study resources and teaching have left many Christians feeling isolated and discouraged. Converts face a particularly difficult time, as they are expelled from traditional society and can lose their jobs. Those who share the Gospel of Jesus Christ do so at great risk to their life and liberty.
Prayer Points

	Pray for Christian Believers in Turkmenistan who have suffered continuous persecution under the present regime.
	Pray that God would protect Christians who gather to worship.
	Ask God to provide for the financial needs of those who have been fined.

Father, we pray for those in Turkmenistan who love the LORD Jesus and desire to worship and follow Him. We ask that You give them courage and perseverance in the face of various kinds of persecution. May their faith be strengthened and purified through what they suffer. We ask that You would provide for their financial needs and enable them to receive encouragement from one another. May they be strengthened by Jesus Christ, the One who was "familiar with suffering." And may You bring greater freedom of worship for minority groups in Turkmenistan. Amen.

ADDITIONAL INFO ON TURKMENISTAN

• View additional info on the Joshua Project site
• Praying Through The Window 6
• Praying Through The Window 7
• 2006 Weekly Prayer Points