Tajikistan is a rural, mountainous country with nearly 10 million people. The economy has improved over the past 15
years, but it still faces high unemployment and remains one of the poorest countries in Central Asia. Almost one-third of
the working population (mostly men, ages 18-40) migrates to Europe seasonally and sends money back home to Tajikistan.
Many leave families behind. Recently, more young women are migrating, too. Due to limited opportunities in Tajikistan, many
young people strive to move to Europe for better work or education. These needs often feel more urgent to them than their
spiritual need for new life in Jesus.