Believers in Laos face violence, harassment, and expulsion for following Jesus.
bottom"Please pray for us that one day we can return home. Life is very tough for us, if God wills for us to live here, our conditions need to improve."
— Huang, expelled from village in northern Laos
A troubling level of violence in Laos continues to impact believers. In areas where the church is growing, especially in rural regions, pressure and violence are almost certain to follow.
Communist authorities heavily monitor all religious activities, even those of registered churches. All gatherings must be reported to the administration, forcing house churches deemed “illegal gatherings” to operate secretly. About 75 per cent of government-approved Lao Evangelical church congregations lack permanent structures and hold services in homes.
Converts to Christianity face severe rights violations. They are seen as outsiders to the Buddhist- animist community and face pressure and violence from their families and the local authorities. In rural areas, families often consist of three generations under one roof, intensifying the pressure. Local authorities and religious leaders may incite the community against converts, leading to expulsion from their villages.
Converts from Christianity are seen as traitors to their families and communities. In parts of Laos, church leaders are often heavily targeted. The highest pressure, including violent opposition, seems primarily focused against churches that are growing and evangelising.
The north of Laos, where the Hmong minority is concentrated, is one province that is particularly tough for Christians. Central and southern provinces also pose significant risks. In these areas, local authorities and communities are determined to silence Christian witness.
– That God will help believers in tribal areas find a safe place to live and worship Him.
– For the families of pastors and other church leaders who have been killed.
– For the Lord’s protection over Christians monitored by Communist authorities.
Open Doors provides support through local partners in Laos who offer Bibles and Christian materials, leadership training, discipleship programmes, and socio-economic development. They also give practical aid and advocate for those in need.
