Day 11
Laos
As inflation in Laos grows to almost 40 percent, the government introduced radical steps including allowing only banks to exchange money and banning the import of food products that are also locally made. One of the impacts of the skyrocketing inflation has been a significant increase of Laos workers finding employment in neighboring Thailand. The risks of human trafficking are significant. Pray protection over migrant workers. Pray also for the poor who are worst affected by the current economic situation. Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort (The Bible, 2 Corinthians 1:3).
Source: To tame inflation, Laos orders closure of all money changing shops, import limits (RFA)
Laos is one of the world’s few remaining communist states, enduring as a one-party socialist Marxist republic supported financially by China and Vietnam. Economic progress was being made with improved poverty, education, and health outcomes, but the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly set back the pace of this growth. At one point, persecution of Christian Believers was mandated by the federal government; however, their stance has changed over the last two decades. National legislation to protect churches has been introduced, but only for the one approved protestant denomination. Persecution of the Church is localized, often driven by society and local government officials who abuse their power and position. Despite persecution, the Christian community grows in number and boldness. 32 percent of the population are under the age of 15, so children’s and youth ministry is very important.
