Myanmar remains mired in a violent conflict that is having a devastating impact on the country’s Christian minority.

Since the military coup in February 2021, Christians have encountered greater violence and tighter restrictions. Believers have been killed and churches have been indiscriminately attacked, even well-established ones in predominantly Christian states like Chin and Kayah. More Christians than ever have been driven out of their homes and have found refuge in churches or IDP camps. Some are even forced to flee to the jungle where they are often deprived of access to food and health care. 

Christians are part of the generally peaceful resistance movement, but fighting has increased across the country, and although not all ethnic minority armed groups are involved, some Christian ones are. Government forces have continued to disproportionally attack Christian villages and churches and also killed Christian aid workers and pastors, often in aerial attacks.

Beyond the conflict, converts to Christianity find themselves persecuted by their Buddhist, Muslim or tribal families and communities because they have left their former faith. Communities who aim to stay “Buddhist only” make life for Christian families impossible. 

Non-traditional church groups experience opposition, too, especially those located in rural areas and those who are known for their evangelistic activities.