Christians experience untold suffering because of persecution and conflict.
bottom“As a husband and a father, sometimes I feel helpless that I cannot make my own family feel safe.”
— Pastor Yang*
*Name changed for security purposes
Christians in Myanmar experience untold suffering because of persecution and conflict, with last year’s devastating earthquakes adding to the vulnerability of many believers. Thousands have been displaced compounded by the March 2025 earthquakes that killed more than 3,600 people and forced even more from their homes.
The vulnerability of Christians in Myanmar goes back years, rooted in the belief that to be Burmese is to be Buddhist. Other faiths are often seen as foreign and a threat to national unity. It leads to everyday discrimination, including difficulties getting Christianity recognised on ID cards, denial of access to basic services such as water, and forced participation in Buddhist rituals.
There’s even a state-supported plan to convert Christians and other religious minorities to Buddhism, particularly in remote areas. Meanwhile, churches have difficulty registering with authorities and evangelistic activities are strongly opposed. Converts can face additional hostility from their families and communities who may view their faith as a betrayal of their heritage.
Five years since the military coup behind Myanmar’s long-running civil war, Christians continue to be caught in the crossfire, particularly in ethnic minority areas, with believers killed, churches bombed, and villages destroyed.
Christians in Chin, Kachin, Shan, Kayah, and Sagaing are particularly at risk with increasing violence, displacement, and targeted attacks. Young believers from poor backgrounds forced to attend Buddhist schools are also vulnerable. Danger for Christian women has intensified, with the military perpetuating sexual and gender-based violence against those of ethnic minority. The threat of arrest and torture persists for Christian men.
– For believers, and all people in Myanmar, as they rebuild after the earthquakes.
– For Christians targeted by the ruling military junta and for the military to know Jesus.
– That God protects church leaders and evangelists who risk everything for the gospel.
Open Doors’ partners strengthen persecuted believers in Myanmar through literature distribution, persecution-survival training, presence ministry, and livelihood support.
