Introduction / History

The first Polish settlers came to Kazakhstan in the 19th century, mostly to the Kazakh cities. But the biggest emigration to this country began in the time of the Second World War and was connected with the Soviet occupation of Eastern Borderlands of pre-war Poland and from Lithuania and Ukraine. It was a kind of communistic genocide - because of extreme conditions, hard work in labor camps, hunger and disease, tens of thousands died. Those who survived started to plant new towns and villages.

Where Are they Located?

The Polish people live in the area of the former Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic. The biggest number of Polish people in this country live in the Taiynsha District, in the north of Kazakhstan. There are also large Polish communities in Almaty.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Today most Polish people in Kazakhstan live in poverty, without access to modern medicine and in poor housing conditions. Young descendants of Polish exiles suffer also from intolerance in their country.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The religious lives of Polish people in Kazakhstan are varied. They are Roman and Greek Catholics, but there are also Orthodox Christians. Some of them are also atheists, because of hard experiences of war and communism.

What Are Their Needs?

Many Polish in Kazakhstan want to return to their country, but for most of them it is impossible. They need good medical care and other material aids. The young people need better access to education and more tolerance for them.

Prayer Points

* Pray for humanitarian aid forthe Polish in Kazakhstan.
* Pray for Bible-believing doctors and teachers.
* Pray for courage and God's wisdom for the people who want to go to serve.