Myanmar (Burma)

Overview from Voice of Martyrs

Myanmar (also known as Burma) has a political system that remains under the tight control of the State Peace and
Development Council, the military government in place since 1992. Officially, Buddhism is no longer the state religion, but it is actively promoted by the military regime. All those who advocate improved human rights are harassed or imprisoned. After a cyclone devastated much of the country on May 3, 2008, the military junta limited international humanitarian aid to storm victims.

Category: Restricted Nation
Religion: Buddhist 82.90%, Christian 8.70%
Ideology: Buddhism/Military dictatorship
Head of State: Sr. Gen. Than Shwe

The government of Burma continues to discourage, harass and use other, more severe, forms of persecution on any group it considers harmful to the state. Christianity is high on the list, even though the government claims freedom of religion in Burma. A secret memo titled “Program to destroy the Christian religion in Burma” details instructions on how to drive out Christians. It calls for anyone caught evangelizing to be imprisoned. VOM has received widespread reports of churches being burned, forcible conversion of Christians to Buddhism and Christian children being barred from schools. Ethnic Christians, in particular, are singled out for repression because of the government’s goal to create a uniform society of one language, one ethnicity and one religion.

We currently oversee a pastors network providing support and training for existing and new church plants approximately 100 churches. 

Provide training for ministers around the country (this is growing as we are providing cross denominational training).

Evangelistic crusades.

Builid water wells.

Support and establish orphanages.