Climate: tropical monsoon; rainy season (May to November); dry season (December to April)
Terrain: mostly rugged mountains; some plains and plateaus
Environment Issues: unexploded ordnance; deforestation; soil erosion; loss of biodiversity; water pollution, most of the population does not have access to potable water
Languages: Lao (official), French, English, various ethnic languages
Government Type: communist state
URGENT is engaged in the following activities within Laos:
- Church Planting
- Training
- Discipleship
- Resources
- Humanitarian Efforts
Communism prevents Christian converts from expressing their faith freely. Communities are often encouraged by local officials to apply pressure to Christians living among them. Though the government has initiated a new program called “freedom of religion and belief,” it’s unclear as to whether there will be any lasting, positive impact for those not adhering to a Buddhist belief system. (Source: Open Doors)
- Pray for rural, underground churches to be protected from watchful eyes so that members can grow in their knowledge of Christ.
- Pray for a change of heart in the leaders of provinces that remain intent on removing a Christian presence.
- Pray for continued opportunities to support Laotian Christ-followers with Christian materials, discipleship training, and humanitarian aid.
- Security Tier: 3
- Religion: Buddhist
- Engagement Scale: 3
19.8563° N, 102.4955° E
Persecution rating
22
(1=High to 50=Low)
