27Tajikistan

Despite Tajikistan having the highest percentage of Muslims in Central Asia, the country’s secular, dictatorial state maintains a tight grip on all religions. This very much includes Christians – especially those from Protestant groups, who are deemed dangerous followers of “deviant” sects.

Since 2015, pressure on “unauthorised” gatherings – such as those from Baptist, Evangelical, and Pentecostal groups – has increased, leading to a rise in raids. With that, more interrogations, fines, and the confiscation of materials have come. Religious activities involving under-18s are banned, and recent amendments seek to criminalise the “underground” religious education of children, which extends to online activity. With young people believed to make up 50% of the Tajik Church, this is a huge obstacle to overcome.

Like other countries in Central Asia, the Russian Orthodox Church enjoys relatively more freedom, mainly because it seldom attempts to influence or evangelise the broader Tajik population.

There are about 3,000 converts in Tajikistan. They are highly vulnerable to reprisals from their family and community, as well as the authorities, for “betraying” their ethnic and national identity. Given the dangers, many converts keep their faith secret.

Meet Pastor Roman

“You should know that I first want to forgive you for the fact that you’re going to shoot me, and that God loves you very much. His love will also remain with you, no matter what.”

Pastor Roman* (not his real name) in Central Asia prayed for his persecutors as they prepared to kill him, leading to an astonishing series of events.

What does Open Doors do to help?

Open Doors strengthens the Church in Central Asia through numerous initiatives, including literature distribution, prayer support, presence ministry, livelihood support and women’s ministries.