Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Tajikistan became an independent republic in September 1991. The country was quickly plunged into a five-year civil war for control of the central government, causing thousands of civilians to flee to neighbouring Afghanistan. The war finally ended in 1997 with the loss of tens of thousands of lives. The devastation of the war brought three years of droughts and natural disasters and left the country in great poverty.

Life in this predominantly Muslim country is difficult and the influence of Islam is great. Religious freedom is protected in the constitution, but the fear of militant Islamic groups provides the government with an excuse to closely monitor religious practice in the country. Though 90 percent profess to be Muslim, the majority are more influenced by superstition and Zoroastrianism than by Islam.

The small Christian population is mostly made up of people from European descent. There is very little Christian literature available, particularly in the Tajik language. While evangelism is not illegal, authorities try to prevent any activity that might cause religious tension. In mid-November 2008, a restrictive draft religion law was sent by President Emomali Rahmon to the parliament for approval. The draft law allegedly restricts the activity of religious organizations, limits religious education, and imposes state censorship over religious literature. If the law passes, religious organizations currently registered would be forced to re-register by July 2009. However, the draft law's stringent requirements would make it difficult for some groups to continue to qualify for registration. 

• Pray that God will provide for the physical needs of the people of Tajikistan.
• Pray that freedom of religion will be respected by the government.
• Pray that the draft religion law will be rejected.