Pray for Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan is a landlocked country in Central Asia.  

It is bordered by Kazakhstan in the north, Uzbekistan in the west,
Tajikistan in the southwest and China in the east.

The population is 5.5 million
The capital is Bishkek

FACTS
Kyrgyzstan means "Land of the Forty."

DEMOGRAPHICS
64.9% Kyrgyz
13.8% Uzbek
12.5% Russian
1.1%  Dungan
1%    Ukrainian
1%    Ugyhur
5.7%  Other

80%   Muslim
17%   Russian Orthodox
3%    Other

HISTORY
Kyrgyzstan has been inhabited for thousands of years.
Some of the early settlers were Scythian.
The Kyrgyz people settled in the area around to 201 BC.

During the 7th century Islam was introduced.

The Kyrguz were at their height during the 9th century
During this time they expanded throughout Central Asia.

During the 12th century their territory shrunk as result of the Mongol invasion.
The Kyrgyz were conquered by Genghis Khan in 1207.

Over the next several centuries the area was conquered several times
The 17th century     Mongol Oirats tribes.
Mid 18th century     The Manchu Qing Dynasty
Early 19th century   The Uzbek Khanate

In 1876 the area was ceded to Russia through treaties between China and Russia.
The Russian takeover was met with numerous revolts
Many of the Kyrgyz fled to the Pamir Mountains and Afghanistan.

Kyrgyzstan became independent in 1991 with the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

CONDITIONS
Kyrgyzstan is the poorest and smallest of the Central Asian Republics.
An estimated 90% of the population live in poverty

There is much governmental corruption.

Northerners are influenced by Russian culture, while Southerners are
more traditional.

There is much bride kidnapping.

SPIRITUAL CONDITIONS
Kyrgyzstan is culturally Muslim.

Many consider Christianity to be a Western religion.

A minimum of 200 people is required to register a church.
Consequently, many groups function without registration, risking
policechecks and fines.

Children are not allowed to be involved in religious organizations.
In general, open evangelism is not allowed.
Distribution of religious material is prohibited

Conversion is seen as a betrayal of both ethnic identity and family.
Christians from Muslim background often face oppression from relatives,
neighbors and Islamic clergy.
In remote regions, believers find it difficult to get a job because of their faith.

PRAYER NEEDS
For wise leadership and peace for the country.

For Muslim-background believers who face hostility and rejection
from their relatives

For protection on all evangelism and outreach activities,
as they are legally not permitted.