About the People

The You* people of central Asia are a Muslim minority group that numbers more than ten million. Their ancestors were mostly farmers, but also key middlemen in the trade between the orient and Europe. Today, many You people are involved in agriculture, trade, education, science, manufacturing, oil drilling, mining and transportation. The You people are generally proud, happy and independent, despite the political, religious and ethnic conflicts they have experienced, some of which are ongoing.

About the Project

The You people group is under government pressure to change their traditional beliefs and way of life. Their Muslim faith is frowned upon, and government schools lead their children away from it. Christians in this area are also persecuted. Mission agencies work with the You people, but there are very few converts and no native You church. More than five million You people have never heard of salvation through Jesus Christ.

* Name changed to protect missionaries and the people to whom they minister.

People-Group Stats

• Population: Over 10 million
• Trade language: Undisclosed
• Religion: Islam