Since the military coup in Myanmar/Burma (February 2021), repression in the country has increased. Lethal and non-lethal attacks on citizens have targeted all segments of the population, but CSW is particularly concerned by the ongoing violent crackdown on religious and ethnic minorities.
With your support, we are consistently and extensively campaigning for the protection of religious minorities, and calling for the UK to take the lead in supporting a global arms embargo and the need for unhindered humanitarian access in Myanmar.
Join us this week as we continue to pray and petition for the people of Myanmar.
Find out more at csw.org.uk/burma
Sunday 19 June
Today is the birthday of Aung San Suu Kyi, Myanmar’s democratically elected leader. Join us in praying for her release; as we go to print, she is currently serving a two-year prison sentence following the first of a series of verdicts against her, including for inciting dissent during the coup and for breaking COVID-19-related rules.
Monday 20 June
When the military took power in the February 2021 coup, other civilian leaders were also unjustly detained and placed under house arrest. Pray for renewed courage to fill their hearts, and for the swift release of all political prisoners in Myanmar.
Tuesday 21 June
Our partners in Myanmar have asked us to join them today in praying for the protection, support and perseverance of ethnic organisations in the country as they seek to counter the military’s campaign of destruction and deadly violence.
Wednesday 22 June
Chin state has faced an onslaught of rocket attacks and deliberate arson by soldiers, causing devastation to homes, businesses and churches. Many have been killed or injured and thousands have been forced to flee. Pray for the people of Chin state, and groups like the Chin Human Rights Organisation, as they struggle for freedom and fundamental rights.
Thursday 23 June
In Kayah (Karenni) State, thousands have been displaced and many have been killed by the military. At least 35 civilians were burned alive on Christmas Eve last year, with sources also reporting the use of human shields and the placing of landmines around villages. Pray for courage for the people of Kayah, for all those who have lost loved ones to the violence and for the attacks to cease.
Friday 24 June
Today, thank God for CSW’s staff who tirelessly advocate for freedom of religion or belief in Myanmar, and for our partners, including Cardinal Charles Bo and Dr Sasa, the Union Minister of the Ministry of International Cooperation and spokesperson of the National Unity Government of Myanmar - a government in exile formed by parliamentarians elected in November 2020 - together with ethnic groups and other pro-democracy, human rights and civil society organisations and representatives of the National League for Democracy. Use Psalm 121 to aid your prayers.
Saturday 25 June
Heavenly Father, we pray that you will grant strength, courage and protection to those who are suffering in Myanmar; grant them guidance and peace for when their path seems impossible to tread; and hope for a future where they have the freedom to live out their faith without fear. Amen.