World Watch Update: Maldives
Region: South Asia
Population: 376 000 (a few thousand Christians)
Main Religion: Islam
Government: Federal Republic
Source of Persecution: Islamic Oppression, Dictatorial Paranoia, Organised Corruption and Crime
The Maldives, world renowned for its luxury vacation resorts, is a place of intense persecution for Christians. Here, the Islamic government insists that the country be run according to Islamic principles and that all citizens be Muslim.
Currently, the government is engaged in a political struggle resulting in them dealing quickly and strongly with any perceived threat, like Christianity. Furthermore, radical Islamic clerics exert strong control, making it impossible for converts to openly express their faith. Expatriate Christians are also very cautious in worshipping, and they frequently avoid meeting in groups. Sadly, the few hidden Christians often struggle with drug addiction and other social problems, which are common in Maldivian society.
With this in mind:
- Pray that God will give Muslim people dreams and visions that lead them to Jesus.
- Pray for those who train secret believers, to provide fellowship and Bible teaching safely.
- Pray for God’s healing and new birth in the lives of the large number of Maldivians who’ve been damaged by drug abuse.