The Tajiks of Central Asia are the oldest surviving people group in that region. Their homeland, Tajikistan, is the mountainous center of Asia, surrounded by the Asian republics of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Kyrgyzstan. Tajikistan includes the Pamir Mountains, which reach altitudes of nearly 25,000 feet. Most of the people live in the parallel valleys below. Tajiks have repeatedly been invaded and conquered throughout their history. The armies of Alexander the Great, the Arabs in the seventh century, Genghis Khan, the Turks, the British, and the Russian empire have all had a profound impact on these people. In fact, the numerous invasions have been the major factor in the dispersion of Tajiks to other locations. Many Tajiks have crossed over into Afghanistan and are still surrounded by war, ethnic violence, religious tension, and harsh living conditions. After the breakup of the USSR, Tajikistan still suffered through years of a civil war which ended in 1997. However, tens of thousands had been killed and thousands of wives widowed. The economy collapsed, and unemployment was extremely high, up to 70% in some rural areas. Those with the means go where they can find jobs, including many countries in Western Europe like the UK.

The Tajiks and other Central Asian peoples seek to relocate to the UK for two main reasons. One is for better employment and opportunities they are unlikely to find at home. The other would be political or religious asylum. When they reach the UK they sometimes suffer from depression and suicidal tendencies.

Tajiks are officially Sunni Muslim, but the decades of Soviet domination caused many to become secularized. Many retain a secular mindset in the UK. The mosque is likely to be a meeting place and a way to experience their culture, not a way to gain spiritual growth. Some, however, are dedicated to Islam.

The Tajik people in the U. K. need to submit to Jesus Christ so they can experience the abundant life He offers them in John 10:10.

* Scripture Prayers for the Tajik in United Kingdom.

Pray that the Tajik people will have a spiritual hunger that will open their hearts to the King of kings. Pray for workers who are driving by the love and boldness of the Holy Spirit to go to them. Pray for a disciple making movement among them to begin this decade.