Belarus

After seven decades as a constituent republic of the USSR, Belarus attained its independence in 1991. It has retained closer political and economic ties to Russia than any of the other former Soviet republics. Belarus and Russia signed a treaty on a two-state union on 8 December 1999 envisioning greater political and economic integration. Although Belarus agreed to a framework to carry out the accord, serious implementation has yet to take place. Since his election in July 1994 as the country's first president, Alexander LUKASHENKO has steadily consolidated his power through authoritarian means. Government restrictions on freedom of speech and the press, peaceful assembly, and religion continue.

YWAM in BELARUS:
YWAM Minsk began in 1995 when Phil and Lori Yeoman from YWAM Arkansas moved to Belarus.

Today the ministry is led by David and Ingunn Holmes, from Norway.

Ministries include DTS's, King's Kids, clown and sports evangelism, and Mercy Ministries.

prayer needs:
Religious freedom has been severely limited by recent governmental legislation. Pray for wisdom for Christian leaders in the land, and a spirit of unity for a united response to this situation.