Release International

Buddhist nationalists in Sri Lanka have caused concern among Protestant Christians by renewing their calls for anti-conversion laws.

The Jathika Hela Urumaya (JHU) party, which has been pushing for legislation banning 'forced conversion' since 2004, renewed its campaign in a press statement this month. It called on the Government to re-introduce to Parliament the JHU'S Prohibition of Religious Conversions Bill and 'ban fundamental Christian groups in the island'.

Sri Lankan Protestants – and especially evangelicals who are a particular target for discrimination and even persecution – fear that the law outlined in the Bill would be used to limit their church activities.

Release sources inside Sri Lanka say Christians are also concerned about a loosely worded circular from the Ministry of Religious Affairs issued in September which stipulates that building or maintaining places of worship 'must be sanctioned by prior approval of the Ministry'. They say that some existing churches have already been informed they are 'illegal' and must close because they do not have state approval.

According to our sources evangelical churches in particular are facing increased pressure from the state, with 'indiscriminate closure and threats'. Their applications to register formally are 'routinely rejected' – and there is evidence that planning permission is even being denied for non-church buildings if the applicant is a Christian individual or organisation.

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(Source: Release sources in Sri Lanka)

• Pray that the JHU's bid to introduce anti-conversion laws in Sri Lanka will fail. Pray that officials will end discriminatory policies which limit the activities of some Christians. Ask God to bless and protect evangelical Christians, a particular target for discrimination. And pray for all those working for religious freedom in Sri Lanka.

• EGYPT – As parliamentary elections start today, please pray for protection for Christians who fear that the current climate of intimidation, violence and instability could lead to fewer Christians voting, thus affecting their representation in Parliament. Pray that those elected will fight discrimination and uphold religious freedom. 

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