Uzbekistan

What does persecution look like in Uzbekistan?

Despite being a secular state, Uzbekistan can be an enormously challenging place for its small pocket of Christians to express and share their faith.

Churches can be hindered by cumbersome and unattainable restrictions. This includes a recently introduced requirement for churches to have a minimum number of members – and yet, for small congregations, that number is impossible to reach. Churches that fail to fall in line with government protocols – for example, by possessing ‘unauthorised’ materials – are in danger of raids, arrests, threats and heavy fines. It is a different story for Russian Orthodox churches: they rarely encounter problems because of their limited engagement with the native Uzbek population.

Converts from Islam can face strong opposition from their families and community, particularly those living in rural regions where Islamic and clan identity is strong. Unsurprisingly, many believers feel forced to keep their faith secret.

Who is most vulnerable to persecution?

As in many places worldwide, converts to Christianity are especially exposed to persecution, particularly those living outside the main urban centres. One hotspot of severe persecution is Fergana Valley, where traditional Islamic values and clan structures are strongest. Government hostility is largely reserved for church leaders, given the disquieting impact it has on the wider Christian community.

Meet a Christian convert in Central Asia

“A year ago, we became believers in Jesus Christ. Everything was so new to us, and we really needed wisdom and training on how to live as Christians. Thanks to the books you brought us in our native language, miracles began to happen in our family!”

A Christian convert in Central Asia. Her family received Christian books from Open Doors partners.

What has changed this year?

Things have changed very little in Uzbekistan, but recent adjustments to the law have made it even more difficult for churches to operate. In March 2025, penalties for possessing ‘unauthorised’ religious literature increased, with fines now reaching 50 times the minimum monthly wage. For leaders and their families, who face the brunt of these penalties, the impact is paralysing. The last year has also seen a jump in the number of times local neighbourhood committees reported Christian activities to the police.

What does Open Doors do to help Christians in Uzbekistan?

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

How can you pray for Uzbekistan?

• Churches and church leaders often come under surveillance by the authorities. Pray they would be able to lead others without harassment or harm.
• Non-registered churches are especially targeted and raided. Ask God to protect believers who risk so much simply to meet and worship Him.
• Ask that converts from Islam in Uzbekistan – who are often pressured by family, community and government to recant – will receive God’s grace and hope.