Most Christian pastors and leaders have chosen to remain with their congregants, despite increased systemic persecution from the military junta. A report from the Burma Research Institute (BRI) revealed that the leaders continue to share the suffering of Christians in the Chin, Kachin, Karenni, and Karen states, and the Sagaing Region within Myanmar.
The report documented the persecution which Christians and their facilities have undergone since the military coup which took place in 2021. It was released on January 30, 2026, and detailed a series of destructive attacks, murders, and harassment of Christians across Myanmar.
According to the report, key findings from the report include the destruction of 343 Christian churches and buildings by the Burmese military since the coup. In addition, it stated that 149 Christians have been killed and 218 were imprisoned according to Open Doors’ totals for 2022 to 2025 as presented in the report. The report also documented persistent attacks on religious sites during Christian holy days, and that 21 out of 22 churches in Thantlang Town, a majority-Christian town, have been destroyed and the town’s population displaced since 2021.
One church leader still living in Myanmar reported that Christians are now scattered across jungles, remote areas, and informal shelters, struggling to practice their faith under constant threat of retaliation.
BRI Board Chairman Reverend Dr Robin Stoops and President Zo Zum Hmung facilitated the launch of the report, offering remarks summarising the reports findings and recommendations.
Reverend Dr Stoops said that “Burma Research Institute’s latest report documents the ongoing trauma faced by Christian communities in Burma as persecution by the military junta continues.” He proceeded to encourage the US government to “take note and act decisively to hold those responsible accountable”
While President of Burma Research Institute stated that the report “shows that the military atrocities against Christians constitute crimes against humanity and war crimes.”
US senator Chuck Grassley expressed outrage at the ill-treatment of Christians in Myanmar. “Those who remain in Burma face the military’s brutal crackdown and repression… most outrageous of all is the persecution of Christians. This must stop!,” he insisted, “I’ve supported efforts in the past to strengthen democracy in Burma and hold the military accountable. My prayers are with all Burmese who have suffered under military rule, and I hope today’s report shines a light on these atrocities and moves us closer to lasting peace and justice for all people of Burma,” he said.
