Bangladesh faces widespread political and bureaucratic corruption, along with overpopulation and a high poverty rate. Almost half the population lives on less than a dollar a day. Annual monsoon flooding hinders economic development, and religious extremism is growing.
Category: Restricted Nation
Religion: Muslim 89%, Christian 0.7%
Ideology: Islam
Head of State: President Zillur Rahman
Bangladesh officially became a Muslim state in 1988. Religious minorities may worship openly, but they face social discrimination, and religious freedom is being steadily eroded by Islamist pressure. Most discrimination against Christians comes from Muslims, but Buddhists in southeastern Bangladesh also oppose Christians. Christians are denied access to public water wells, their property is destroyed and they are beaten and blackmailed. While forced reconversion to Islam is increasing, indigenous churches continue to grow. VOM supports a safe house and training center for converts.
Daily Prayer Requests:
January 28: Pray for Voice of the Martyrs ministry center, which houses about 200 children and 100 adults.
January 29: Pray for Sharif and others returning home after completing discipleship training programs.
January 30: Christians are threatened with forces re-conversion to Islam. Pray that they will remain strong.
January 31: Pray for President Zillur Rahman.
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