16 Maldives

Maldives
Persecution Type
  • Islamic oppression (Very strong)
  • Dictatorial paranoia (Medium)
Christian population

Hundreds (estimate)

Main Religion

Islam

Leader

President Mohamed Muizzu

What does persecution look like in the Maldives?

The Maldives is an island paradise popular for welcoming tourists from around the world, but the welcome sadly doesn’t extend to Maldivians who choose to follow Jesus.  

This nation of 1,000-plus islands declares itself to be 100 % Muslim, so being a citizen of the Maldives means being a Muslim. Within the country’s close-knit communities, any deviation from Islamic values is easily spotted and reported to the authorities or Muslim leaders. Those who leave Islam must keep their faith secret. It’s so dangerous that husbands, wives and children may even hide their faith from one another. If discovered, believers may be stripped of their citizenship, isolated from society and lose their state benefits. 

While foreign Christians have slightly more freedom than converts, their gatherings are strictly monitored and controlled by the authorities. They are strictly forbidden from sharing their faith with Maldivians.  

How can I pray?

  • Pray that secret believers will be able to access the Bible in their own language. 
  • Pray for Christians, both Maldivians and migrant believers, to find opportunities to meet, pray and worship with one another. 
  • Pray that the Lord will open the eyes of tourists and travellers to the situation facing Christians in the Maldives. 

YOUR YEAR-END GIFT IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER.

Persecution is growing, and so are the needs of persecuted believers. More Christians need Bibles, discipleship, trauma counselling, and relief aid as they face violence, displacement, and loss. 

The Canada Post strikes slowed the arrival of gifts during this critical time of year. Will you help?

Your support will empower persecuted believers through Bibles, training, relief aid, trauma counselling, and more. 

Your year-end gift is more important than ever.

Persecution is growing, and so are the needs of persecuted believers. More Christians need Bibles, discipleship, trauma counselling, and relief aid as they face violence, displacement, and loss. 

The Canada Post strikes slowed the arrival of gifts during this critical time of year. Will you help?

Your support will empower persecuted believers through Bibles, training, relief aid, trauma counselling, and more.