Faith
Myanmar’s Christians Face Rising Persecution
Faith Facts
- Since Myanmar’s 2021 coup, over 220 churches have been destroyed and at least 85 clergy killed.
- Christian communities are being displaced, with many forced to submit worship details to authorities as the military targets congregations.
- Discriminatory rebuilding orders and forced conscription have further endangered Christians and other minorities.
Myanmar’s Christian minority is under increasing threat as the military intensifies its attacks against religious communities, focusing its violence on regions like Chin State.
Churches have been destroyed, congregations driven from their homes, and worship sites misused or left in ruins.
Authorities are requiring Christians in certain areas to present worship schedules and attendance lists, tightening government control over religious practice.
This crisis also impacts other groups, including Rohingya Muslims and Buddhist monasteries, who face violence and forced conscription.
Recent government orders block churches and mosques from rebuilding beyond their “original design and dimensions,” leaving many structures in disrepair.
CSW Founder President Mervyn Thomas stated, “The military junta must end all indiscriminate airstrikes on civilian targets, especially places of worship, schools, and hospitals.”
He called for the repeal of the 2024 conscription law and discriminatory orders restricting religious practice and the rebuilding of places of worship.
He added, “As Christians around the world prayed yesterday for the persecuted church, believers in Myanmar continue to face brutal repression. The junta’s deliberate targeting of churches and pastors must be recognised for what it is — an assault on faith itself.”
Let us pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ enduring persecution, and urge leaders to protect religious liberty and stand for righteousness wherever it is threatened.