| TURKMENISTAN Turkmenistan Turkmenistan Joined United Nations: 2 March 1992 Human Rights as assured by their constitution Click here Updated 03/30/10 |
| CAPITAL |
| POPULATION |
| CHIEF OF STATE |
| SELECTION PROCESS |
Ashgabat (Ashkhabad)
4,884,887 (July 2009 est.)
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow
President since 14 February 2007
President since 14 February 2007
President elected by popular vote for a five-year term; election
last held 11 February 2007
Next scheduled election 2012
last held 11 February 2007
Next scheduled election 2012
HEAD OF GOVERNMENT
SELECTION PROCESS
According to the Turkmenistan Constitution, the president is
both the chief of state and head of government
both the chief of state and head of government
| DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS |
| ETHNIC GROUPS |
Turkmen 85%, Uzbek 5%, Russian 4%, other 6% (2003)
| RELIGIONS |
Muslim 89%, Eastern Orthodox 9%, unknown 2%
| GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE |
Republic; authoritarian presidential rule, with little power outside the executive branch; 5 provinces (welayatlar, singular - welayat)
Legal system is based on civil law system
Executive: President elected by popular vote for a five-year term; election last held 11 February 2007; next to be held: 2012
Legislative: unicameral parliament known as the National Assembly (Mejlis) (125 seats; members are elected by popular
vote to serve five-year terms)
elections: Mejlis - last held 14 December 2008 (next to be held December 2013)
Judicial: Supreme Court (judges are appointed by the president)
Legal system is based on civil law system
Executive: President elected by popular vote for a five-year term; election last held 11 February 2007; next to be held: 2012
Legislative: unicameral parliament known as the National Assembly (Mejlis) (125 seats; members are elected by popular
vote to serve five-year terms)
elections: Mejlis - last held 14 December 2008 (next to be held December 2013)
Judicial: Supreme Court (judges are appointed by the president)
| LANGUAGES |
Turkmen 72%, Russian 12%, Uzbek 9%, other 7%
| BRIEF HISTORY |
Tools from the Stone-Age have been discovered along the Caspian Sea shore and near the modern port of Turkmenbashi,
establishing the pre-historic presence of humans in the area that is today known as Turkmenistan. The remains of farming
settlements in the Kopet-Dag Mountains date back 8,000 years. By the 6th century B.C., the powerful Persian Empire had
established the provinces of Parthia and Margiana, in what is now Turkmenistan. In the 4th century B.C., the Persian Empire
was defeated by the army of Alexander the Great. In 330 B.C., Alexander marched northward into central Asia and
founded the city of Alexandria near the Murgab River. Located on an important trade route, Alexandria later became the
city of Merv (modern Mary). After Alexander's death in 323 B.C., his generals fought for control of his empire, which
quickly fell apart. The Scythians—fierce, nomadic warriors from the north—then established the kingdom of Parthia, which
covered present-day Turkmenistan and Iran. Parthia fell in A.D. 224 to the Sasanian rulers of Persia. At the same time,
several groups—including the Alans and the Huns—were moving into Turkmenistan from the east and north. A branch of
the Huns wrested control of southern Turkmenistan from the Sasanian Empire in the 5th century A.D. Although
Turkmenistan was still populated mostly by nomadic herders, permanent settlements were prospering in the fertile river
valleys. Central Asia came under Arab control after a series of invasions in the late 7th and early 8th centuries. Meanwhile,
the Oguz—the ancestors of the Turkmen—were migrating from eastern Asia into central Asia, the Middle East, and Asia
Minor (modern Turkey). The Arab conquest brought the Islamic religion to the Oguz and to the other peoples of central
Asia. By the 11th century, the Oguz were pushing to the south and west, and the Arabs were retreating from Turkmenistan.
In the 11th and 12th centuries, the main centers of Turkmen culture were at Khiva in the north (now in Uzbekistan) and at
Merv in the south. Khiva controlled the cities and farming estates of the lower Amu Darya Valley. Merv became a
crossroads of trade in silks and spices between Asia and the Middle East. This business created vast wealth in the ancient
city, where the Seljuk rulers built fabulous mosques and palaces. In 1157, during a revolt of powerful landowners, the
Seljuk Empire collapsed. The leaders of Khiva took control of Turkmenistan, but their reign was brief. In 1221, central Asia
suffered a disastrous invasion by Mongol warriors who were sweeping across the region from their base in eastern Asia.
Under their commander Genghis Khan, the Mongols conquered Khiva and burned the city of Merv to the ground. After
Genghis Khan's death in 1227, the Mongols lost control of Turkmenistan. Small, semi-independent states arose under the
rule of the region's landowners. In the 1370’s, the Mongol leader Timur (known as Tamerlane in Europe). Later, as the
Mongols retreated from Turkmenistan, the Turkmen fell under the control of Muslim khans (rulers) who established khanates
in Bukhara (in modern Uzbekistan) and Khiva. The rivalry between the khans and the rulers of Persia touched off centuries
of war in Turkmenistan. Persians, Turkmen, and the khans fought for the scattered oases in southern Turkmenistan. From
the 14th through the 17th century, Turkmenistan was in decline. To escape the conflicts, most Turkmen moved to the remote
deserts along the borders of Persia and Afghanistan. In the 18th century, after centuries of poverty and isolation, the
Turkmen began to rebuild their way of life. The poet Magtymguly created a literary language for the Turkmen and laid the
foundations for their modern culture and traditions. The Russian czar, Peter the Great sent the first Russian expeditions into
Turkmenistan. Peter was seeking a route for Russian trade with southern Asia and the Middle East. In 1716, however,
members of a Turkmen clan murdered the czar's representatives near Khiva. Russia waited for more than a century before
sending another mission into Turkmenistan. Nevertheless, trade between Turkmen merchants and Russia continued and was
helped by the building of a port on the Caspian Sea at Krasnovodsk, (modern Turkmenbashi). In 1802, members of several
Turkmen clans officially became Russian subjects. As a first step in the conquest of the region, the Russians agreed to
provide arms and food to the Turkmen rebels. Russia began sending military expeditions into Turkmenistan in the second
half of the 19th century. The building of the Transcaspian Railroad,which connected Krasnovodsk (modern Turkmenbashi),
Mary, and trading centers to the east, opened up the region for economic development. From 1890 to 1917, Turkmenistan
was part of Russian Turkestan, a province that included central Asia and its Muslim nationalities—the Kazakhs, the Uzbeks,
the Kyrgyz, the Taliks, and the Turkmen. A violent uprising broke out in 1916, when the Turkmen, led by Dzhunaid Khan,
defeated the Russians at Khiva. The Turkmen established a national government that lasted until 1918. In October 1917, the
Communist leader Vladimir Ilich Lenin overthrew the Russian government. The Communists succeeded in taking control of
Ashkhabad in the summer of 1918. In response, Dzhunaid Khan and forces loyal to the old Russian regime joined together
to drive out the Communists.In the late 1920s and early 1930s, the Soviet leader Joseph Stalin made harsh and sweeping
changes throughout the USSR. Private property was seized, and the Soviet government used brutal methods to punish
opposition. These policies sparked a rebellion in Turkmenistan, and in 1927 the Soviets lost control of the republic to a
national resistance movement called the Turkmen Freedom. The western Soviet Union was devastated by World War II
(1939-1945), when Germany invaded with a huge military force. After the war, the Soviets built new plants in central Asian
cities, including Ashkhabad and Chardzhou (modern Turkmenabat). A work force made up of ethnic Russians and ethnic
Ukrainians emigrated to the Turkmen SSR to take advantage of new jobs in the republic. The Soviet leader Mikhail
Gorbachev instituted several new policies after coming to power in 1985. Glasnost allowed more open criticism of the
Communist party and of the country's economic system. Perestroika eased government control over many small businesses,
which could now set their own wages, prices, and production schedules. The government established the office of president
and named Saparmurat Niyazov to the post. On October 27, 1991 Turkmenistan proclaimed its independence from the
United Soviet Socialist Republic. President Saparmurat NIYAZOV retains absolute control over the country and opposition
is not tolerated. Extensive hydrocarbon/natural gas reserves could prove a boon to this underdeveloped country if extraction
and delivery projects were to be expanded. The Turkmenistan Government is actively seeking to develop alternative
petroleum transportation routes in order to break Russia's pipeline monopoly. The sudden death of Niyazov in December
2006 led to the interim elevation of Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov, who was elected on 11 February 2007.
Sources Turkmenistan Embassy Washington ; CIA World Factbook (select Turkmenistan)
establishing the pre-historic presence of humans in the area that is today known as Turkmenistan. The remains of farming
settlements in the Kopet-Dag Mountains date back 8,000 years. By the 6th century B.C., the powerful Persian Empire had
established the provinces of Parthia and Margiana, in what is now Turkmenistan. In the 4th century B.C., the Persian Empire
was defeated by the army of Alexander the Great. In 330 B.C., Alexander marched northward into central Asia and
founded the city of Alexandria near the Murgab River. Located on an important trade route, Alexandria later became the
city of Merv (modern Mary). After Alexander's death in 323 B.C., his generals fought for control of his empire, which
quickly fell apart. The Scythians—fierce, nomadic warriors from the north—then established the kingdom of Parthia, which
covered present-day Turkmenistan and Iran. Parthia fell in A.D. 224 to the Sasanian rulers of Persia. At the same time,
several groups—including the Alans and the Huns—were moving into Turkmenistan from the east and north. A branch of
the Huns wrested control of southern Turkmenistan from the Sasanian Empire in the 5th century A.D. Although
Turkmenistan was still populated mostly by nomadic herders, permanent settlements were prospering in the fertile river
valleys. Central Asia came under Arab control after a series of invasions in the late 7th and early 8th centuries. Meanwhile,
the Oguz—the ancestors of the Turkmen—were migrating from eastern Asia into central Asia, the Middle East, and Asia
Minor (modern Turkey). The Arab conquest brought the Islamic religion to the Oguz and to the other peoples of central
Asia. By the 11th century, the Oguz were pushing to the south and west, and the Arabs were retreating from Turkmenistan.
In the 11th and 12th centuries, the main centers of Turkmen culture were at Khiva in the north (now in Uzbekistan) and at
Merv in the south. Khiva controlled the cities and farming estates of the lower Amu Darya Valley. Merv became a
crossroads of trade in silks and spices between Asia and the Middle East. This business created vast wealth in the ancient
city, where the Seljuk rulers built fabulous mosques and palaces. In 1157, during a revolt of powerful landowners, the
Seljuk Empire collapsed. The leaders of Khiva took control of Turkmenistan, but their reign was brief. In 1221, central Asia
suffered a disastrous invasion by Mongol warriors who were sweeping across the region from their base in eastern Asia.
Under their commander Genghis Khan, the Mongols conquered Khiva and burned the city of Merv to the ground. After
Genghis Khan's death in 1227, the Mongols lost control of Turkmenistan. Small, semi-independent states arose under the
rule of the region's landowners. In the 1370’s, the Mongol leader Timur (known as Tamerlane in Europe). Later, as the
Mongols retreated from Turkmenistan, the Turkmen fell under the control of Muslim khans (rulers) who established khanates
in Bukhara (in modern Uzbekistan) and Khiva. The rivalry between the khans and the rulers of Persia touched off centuries
of war in Turkmenistan. Persians, Turkmen, and the khans fought for the scattered oases in southern Turkmenistan. From
the 14th through the 17th century, Turkmenistan was in decline. To escape the conflicts, most Turkmen moved to the remote
deserts along the borders of Persia and Afghanistan. In the 18th century, after centuries of poverty and isolation, the
Turkmen began to rebuild their way of life. The poet Magtymguly created a literary language for the Turkmen and laid the
foundations for their modern culture and traditions. The Russian czar, Peter the Great sent the first Russian expeditions into
Turkmenistan. Peter was seeking a route for Russian trade with southern Asia and the Middle East. In 1716, however,
members of a Turkmen clan murdered the czar's representatives near Khiva. Russia waited for more than a century before
sending another mission into Turkmenistan. Nevertheless, trade between Turkmen merchants and Russia continued and was
helped by the building of a port on the Caspian Sea at Krasnovodsk, (modern Turkmenbashi). In 1802, members of several
Turkmen clans officially became Russian subjects. As a first step in the conquest of the region, the Russians agreed to
provide arms and food to the Turkmen rebels. Russia began sending military expeditions into Turkmenistan in the second
half of the 19th century. The building of the Transcaspian Railroad,which connected Krasnovodsk (modern Turkmenbashi),
Mary, and trading centers to the east, opened up the region for economic development. From 1890 to 1917, Turkmenistan
was part of Russian Turkestan, a province that included central Asia and its Muslim nationalities—the Kazakhs, the Uzbeks,
the Kyrgyz, the Taliks, and the Turkmen. A violent uprising broke out in 1916, when the Turkmen, led by Dzhunaid Khan,
defeated the Russians at Khiva. The Turkmen established a national government that lasted until 1918. In October 1917, the
Communist leader Vladimir Ilich Lenin overthrew the Russian government. The Communists succeeded in taking control of
Ashkhabad in the summer of 1918. In response, Dzhunaid Khan and forces loyal to the old Russian regime joined together
to drive out the Communists.In the late 1920s and early 1930s, the Soviet leader Joseph Stalin made harsh and sweeping
changes throughout the USSR. Private property was seized, and the Soviet government used brutal methods to punish
opposition. These policies sparked a rebellion in Turkmenistan, and in 1927 the Soviets lost control of the republic to a
national resistance movement called the Turkmen Freedom. The western Soviet Union was devastated by World War II
(1939-1945), when Germany invaded with a huge military force. After the war, the Soviets built new plants in central Asian
cities, including Ashkhabad and Chardzhou (modern Turkmenabat). A work force made up of ethnic Russians and ethnic
Ukrainians emigrated to the Turkmen SSR to take advantage of new jobs in the republic. The Soviet leader Mikhail
Gorbachev instituted several new policies after coming to power in 1985. Glasnost allowed more open criticism of the
Communist party and of the country's economic system. Perestroika eased government control over many small businesses,
which could now set their own wages, prices, and production schedules. The government established the office of president
and named Saparmurat Niyazov to the post. On October 27, 1991 Turkmenistan proclaimed its independence from the
United Soviet Socialist Republic. President Saparmurat NIYAZOV retains absolute control over the country and opposition
is not tolerated. Extensive hydrocarbon/natural gas reserves could prove a boon to this underdeveloped country if extraction
and delivery projects were to be expanded. The Turkmenistan Government is actively seeking to develop alternative
petroleum transportation routes in order to break Russia's pipeline monopoly. The sudden death of Niyazov in December
2006 led to the interim elevation of Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov, who was elected on 11 February 2007.
Sources Turkmenistan Embassy Washington ; CIA World Factbook (select Turkmenistan)
| ECONOMIC OVERVIEW |
Turkmenistan is largely a desert country with intensive agriculture in irrigated oases and sizeable gas and oil resources.
One-half of its irrigated land is planted in cotton; formerly it was the world's 10th-largest producer. Poor harvests in recent
years have led to an almost 50% decline in cotton exports. With an authoritarian ex-Communist regime in power and a
tribally based social structure, Turkmenistan has taken a cautious approach to economic reform, hoping to use gas and
cotton sales to sustain its inefficient economy. Privatization goals remain limited. From 1998-2005, Turkmenistan suffered
from the continued lack of adequate export routes for natural gas and from obligations on extensive short-term external debt.
At the same time, however, total exports rose by an average of roughly 15% per year from 2003-08, largely because of
higher international oil and gas prices. New pipelines to China and Iran, that began operation in late 2009 or early 2010, will
give Turkmenistan additional export routes for its gas. Overall prospects in the near future are discouraging because of
widespread internal poverty, endemic corruption, a poor educational system, government misuse of oil and gas revenues,
and Ashgabat's reluctance to adopt market-oriented reforms. In addition, the global recession and a contract dispute with
Russia that had virtually stopped exports via this major export route for about 9 months slowed Turkmenistan's economy in
2009. In the past, Turkmenistan's economic statistics were state secrets. The new government has established a State
Agency for Statistics, but GDP numbers and other figures are subject to wide margins of error. In particular, the rate of
GDP growth is uncertain. Since his election, President BERDIMUHAMEDOW unified the country's dual currency
exchange rate, ordered the redenomination of the manat, reduced state subsidies for gasoline, and initiated development of a
special tourism zone on the Caspian Sea. Although foreign investment is encouraged, numerous bureaucratic obstacles
impede international business activity.
One-half of its irrigated land is planted in cotton; formerly it was the world's 10th-largest producer. Poor harvests in recent
years have led to an almost 50% decline in cotton exports. With an authoritarian ex-Communist regime in power and a
tribally based social structure, Turkmenistan has taken a cautious approach to economic reform, hoping to use gas and
cotton sales to sustain its inefficient economy. Privatization goals remain limited. From 1998-2005, Turkmenistan suffered
from the continued lack of adequate export routes for natural gas and from obligations on extensive short-term external debt.
At the same time, however, total exports rose by an average of roughly 15% per year from 2003-08, largely because of
higher international oil and gas prices. New pipelines to China and Iran, that began operation in late 2009 or early 2010, will
give Turkmenistan additional export routes for its gas. Overall prospects in the near future are discouraging because of
widespread internal poverty, endemic corruption, a poor educational system, government misuse of oil and gas revenues,
and Ashgabat's reluctance to adopt market-oriented reforms. In addition, the global recession and a contract dispute with
Russia that had virtually stopped exports via this major export route for about 9 months slowed Turkmenistan's economy in
2009. In the past, Turkmenistan's economic statistics were state secrets. The new government has established a State
Agency for Statistics, but GDP numbers and other figures are subject to wide margins of error. In particular, the rate of
GDP growth is uncertain. Since his election, President BERDIMUHAMEDOW unified the country's dual currency
exchange rate, ordered the redenomination of the manat, reduced state subsidies for gasoline, and initiated development of a
special tourism zone on the Caspian Sea. Although foreign investment is encouraged, numerous bureaucratic obstacles
impede international business activity.
| POLITICAL CLIMATE |
Since the death of Saparmurat Niyazov Turkmenistan's leadership made tentative moves to open up the country.
Berdimuhamedow repealed some of Niyazov's most idiosyncratic policies, including banning opera and the circus for being
"insufficiently Turkmen". In education, his government had increased basic education to 10 years from to nine years, and
higher education had been extended from two years to five. He has also increased contacts with the West, which is eager for
access to the country's natural gas riches - but fears were mounting that the government would revert to Niyazov's draconian
style of rule.
The constitution provides for freedom of the press, but the government does not practice it. The government controls all
media outlets. Only two newspapers, Adalat and Galkynysh, are nominally independent, but they were created by
presidential decree. Cable TV, which had existed in the late 1980s, was shut down.
Activities of all but the officially recognized Russian Orthodox and Sunni Muslim faiths are severely limited. Religious
congregations are required to register with the government, and individual parishes must have at least 500 members to
register. Severe measures are directed toward religious sects that have not been able to establish official ties of state
recognition, especially Baptists, Pentecostals, Seventh-day Adventists, Hare Krishna, Jehovah's Witnesses, and Bahá'ís.
Practitioners of these sects have allegedly been harassed, imprisoned, and/or tortured, according to some outside human
rights advocacy groups.
Corruption continues to be pervasive. Power is concentrated in the president; the judiciary is wholly subservient to the
regime, with all judges appointed for five-year terms by the president without legislative review. Little has been done to
prosecute corrupt officials.
Berdimuhamedow repealed some of Niyazov's most idiosyncratic policies, including banning opera and the circus for being
"insufficiently Turkmen". In education, his government had increased basic education to 10 years from to nine years, and
higher education had been extended from two years to five. He has also increased contacts with the West, which is eager for
access to the country's natural gas riches - but fears were mounting that the government would revert to Niyazov's draconian
style of rule.
The constitution provides for freedom of the press, but the government does not practice it. The government controls all
media outlets. Only two newspapers, Adalat and Galkynysh, are nominally independent, but they were created by
presidential decree. Cable TV, which had existed in the late 1980s, was shut down.
Activities of all but the officially recognized Russian Orthodox and Sunni Muslim faiths are severely limited. Religious
congregations are required to register with the government, and individual parishes must have at least 500 members to
register. Severe measures are directed toward religious sects that have not been able to establish official ties of state
recognition, especially Baptists, Pentecostals, Seventh-day Adventists, Hare Krishna, Jehovah's Witnesses, and Bahá'ís.
Practitioners of these sects have allegedly been harassed, imprisoned, and/or tortured, according to some outside human
rights advocacy groups.
Corruption continues to be pervasive. Power is concentrated in the president; the judiciary is wholly subservient to the
regime, with all judges appointed for five-year terms by the president without legislative review. Little has been done to
prosecute corrupt officials.
| INTERNATIONAL DISPUTES |
Cotton monoculture in Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan creates water-sharing difficulties for Amu Darya river states; field
demarcation of the boundaries with Kazakhstan commenced in 2005, but Caspian seabed delimitation remains stalled with
Azerbaijan, Iran, and Kazakhstan due to Turkmenistan's indecision over how to allocate the sea's waters and seabed
demarcation of the boundaries with Kazakhstan commenced in 2005, but Caspian seabed delimitation remains stalled with
Azerbaijan, Iran, and Kazakhstan due to Turkmenistan's indecision over how to allocate the sea's waters and seabed
| REFUGEES AND INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS (IDP) |
Refugees (country of origin): 11,173 (Tajikistan); less than 1,000 (Afghanistan) (2007)
| ILLICIT DRUGS |
Transit country for Afghan narcotics bound for Russian and Western European markets; transit point for heroin precursor
chemicals bound for Afghanistan.
chemicals bound for Afghanistan.
| HUMAN RIGHTS STATEMENTS, ANALYSIS AND CRITIQUES |
2009 Human Rights Report: Turkmenistan
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
2009 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
March 11, 2010
Although the constitution declares the country to be a secular democracy and presidential republic, it is an authoritarian state of
approximately five million that was dominated by President-for-life Saparmyrat Niyazov until his death in December 2006. The now-
disbanded People's Council selected six candidates for the February 2007 presidential election. All those selected were members of
the Democratic Party, the country's only political party, and Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov won in an election that did not meet
international standards. December 2008 parliamentary elections also fell short of international standards. Civilian authorities
generally maintained effective control of security forces.
Although there were modest improvements in some areas, the government continued to commit serious abuses, and its human
rights record remained poor.
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
2009 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
March 11, 2010
Although the constitution declares the country to be a secular democracy and presidential republic, it is an authoritarian state of
approximately five million that was dominated by President-for-life Saparmyrat Niyazov until his death in December 2006. The now-
disbanded People's Council selected six candidates for the February 2007 presidential election. All those selected were members of
the Democratic Party, the country's only political party, and Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov won in an election that did not meet
international standards. December 2008 parliamentary elections also fell short of international standards. Civilian authorities
generally maintained effective control of security forces.
Although there were modest improvements in some areas, the government continued to commit serious abuses, and its human
rights record remained poor.
- Authorities continued to restrict political and civil liberties.
- Human rights problems included citizens' inability to change their government;
- reports of torture and mistreatment of detainees;
- incommunicado and prolonged detention;
- arbitrary arrest and detention;
- denial of due process and fair trial;
- arbitrary interference with privacy, home, and correspondence;
- restrictions on freedom of speech, press, assembly, and association;
- restrictions on religious freedom, including continued harassment of religious minority group members;
- restrictions on freedom of movement for some citizens, including increased restrictions on those intending to study abroad;
- violence against women;
- restrictions on free association of workers.
12 January 2009
HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL
Tenth session
Agenda item 3
PROMOTION AND PROTECTION OF ALL HUMAN RIGHTS, CIVIL, POLITICAL, ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND
CULTURAL RIGHTS, INCLUDING THE RIGHT TO DEVELOPMENT
Report of the Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief, Asma Jahangir*
Addendum
MISSION TO TURKMENISTAN**
Summary
The Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief carried out a mission to Turkmenistan from 4 to 10 September 2008 at the
invitation of the Government. During her visit, the Special Rapporteur was impressed by the high level of tolerance and the climate
of religious harmony which prevails at the societal level in Turkmenistan; however, there is still mistrust of religious organizations
and collective manifestation of religion. Over the past eight years, the mandate has received reports of arrests, intimidation,
harassment and restrictions on the religious activities of individuals and groups, allegedly perpetrated by the authorities. Although
the situation has much improved since 2007, individuals and religious communities, both registered and unregistered, remain under
close scrutiny and still face a number of difficulties when manifesting their freedom of religion or belief. The Special Rapporteur
remains concerned about the imposition of legal or policy restrictions by the authorities of Turkmenistan on registration, places of
worship, religious material, religious education and proselytism. These laws and their implementation amount in some instances to
undue limitations on freedom to manifest one’s religion or belief, as well as on other rights, such as freedom of association and
freedom of expression.
In her conclusions and recommendations, the Special Rapporteur emphasizes that the enactment and implementation of laws that
unduly restrict freedom of religion or belief cannot provide an efficient and long-term solution to concerns expressed by the
authorities of Turkmenistan that the climate of religious harmony might be disrupted by external extremist groups. However, the
Special Rapporteur stresses that law-making in the area of religion or belief is sensitive. Vague or excessive legislative provisions in
this area are susceptible to create tensions and give rise to multiple problems rather than solving them. In addition, they might be
subject to arbitrary interpretation or abuse of discretion and discrimination by law enforcement agencies and local administration.
Consequently, the Special Rapporteur urges the Government to review the amended law of Turkmenistan on freedom of
conscience and religious organizations so that it no longer infringes on the rights of individuals and groups in their exercise of
freedom of religion or belief. In particular, she recommends that the prohibition on unregistered religious activities and undue
restrictions on religious material, education and attire be removed from the legislation. Similarly, the Government should ensure that
religious communities do not encounter obstructions with regard to the building, opening, renting or use of places of worship. With
regard to the Council on Religious Affairs, the Special Rapporteur is of the view that it should include representatives of religious
minorities and become a facilitating rather than a monitoring mechanism.
Click here to read more »
HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL
Tenth session
Agenda item 3
PROMOTION AND PROTECTION OF ALL HUMAN RIGHTS, CIVIL, POLITICAL, ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND
CULTURAL RIGHTS, INCLUDING THE RIGHT TO DEVELOPMENT
Report of the Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief, Asma Jahangir*
Addendum
MISSION TO TURKMENISTAN**
Summary
The Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief carried out a mission to Turkmenistan from 4 to 10 September 2008 at the
invitation of the Government. During her visit, the Special Rapporteur was impressed by the high level of tolerance and the climate
of religious harmony which prevails at the societal level in Turkmenistan; however, there is still mistrust of religious organizations
and collective manifestation of religion. Over the past eight years, the mandate has received reports of arrests, intimidation,
harassment and restrictions on the religious activities of individuals and groups, allegedly perpetrated by the authorities. Although
the situation has much improved since 2007, individuals and religious communities, both registered and unregistered, remain under
close scrutiny and still face a number of difficulties when manifesting their freedom of religion or belief. The Special Rapporteur
remains concerned about the imposition of legal or policy restrictions by the authorities of Turkmenistan on registration, places of
worship, religious material, religious education and proselytism. These laws and their implementation amount in some instances to
undue limitations on freedom to manifest one’s religion or belief, as well as on other rights, such as freedom of association and
freedom of expression.
In her conclusions and recommendations, the Special Rapporteur emphasizes that the enactment and implementation of laws that
unduly restrict freedom of religion or belief cannot provide an efficient and long-term solution to concerns expressed by the
authorities of Turkmenistan that the climate of religious harmony might be disrupted by external extremist groups. However, the
Special Rapporteur stresses that law-making in the area of religion or belief is sensitive. Vague or excessive legislative provisions in
this area are susceptible to create tensions and give rise to multiple problems rather than solving them. In addition, they might be
subject to arbitrary interpretation or abuse of discretion and discrimination by law enforcement agencies and local administration.
Consequently, the Special Rapporteur urges the Government to review the amended law of Turkmenistan on freedom of
conscience and religious organizations so that it no longer infringes on the rights of individuals and groups in their exercise of
freedom of religion or belief. In particular, she recommends that the prohibition on unregistered religious activities and undue
restrictions on religious material, education and attire be removed from the legislation. Similarly, the Government should ensure that
religious communities do not encounter obstructions with regard to the building, opening, renting or use of places of worship. With
regard to the Council on Religious Affairs, the Special Rapporteur is of the view that it should include representatives of religious
minorities and become a facilitating rather than a monitoring mechanism.
Click here to read more »
Freedom In The World Report- 2009
Political Rights Score: 7
Civil Liberties Score: 7
Status: Not Free
Overview
President Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov oversaw the passage of a new constitution in 2008, but the political system was
changed more in form than in substance. While the country continued to inch away from the bizarre and repressive legacy of long-
ruling president Saparmurat Niyazov, who died in late 2006, progress toward a more free society remained minimal. New contacts
with the outside world were generally limited to business and political leaders vying to secure access to Turkmenistan’s massive
natural gas reserves.
Niyazov’s death in December 2006 from an apparent heart attack was followed by the rapid and seemingly well-orchestrated
ascent of Deputy Prime Minister Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov to the position of acting president. The succession appeared to
circumvent constitutional norms, as criminal charges were brought against Mejlis Speaker Ovezgeldy Atayev, who would have
become acting president according to the constitution. Berdymukhammedov subsequently cemented his formal status, easily
besting five obscure ruling-party candidates in a February 2007 presidential election that was not monitored by any international
observers.
Berdymukhammedov removed Niyazov loyalists from high posts in 2007 and appeared to be firmly in control by 2008. He also took
steps to phase out the cult of personality that had taken shape around his predecessor, ordering the removal of public portraits and
a reduced emphasis on the Ruhnama. In August 2008, the Halk Maslahaty voted without public debate to approve a new
constitution, effectively dissolving itself and dispersing its powers to the Mejlis and the president. Elections for an expanded Mejlis
were held in December, but all of the nearly 300 candidates were preapproved by the presidential administration.
Berdymukhammedov changed Niyazov’s isolationist foreign policy, visiting Saudi Arabia, China, Iran, the United States, and the
European Union and improving long-strained ties with Azerbaijan. In April 2008, he attended a NATO summit in Romania, where he
met with U.S. president George Bush amid reports of possible cooperation to support NATO operations in Afghanistan. Natural gas
sales dominate Turkmenistan’s relations with the outside world, with China building a new pipeline link to the country even as
Russia strives to maintain control over the bulk of its gas exports and the European Union seeks access. An outside audit in 2008
confirmed the extent of Turkmenistan’s gas reserves, ensuring continued fierce competition among foreign companies and
governments to curry favor with the country’s ruler.
Click here to read more »
Political Rights Score: 7
Civil Liberties Score: 7
Status: Not Free
Overview
President Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov oversaw the passage of a new constitution in 2008, but the political system was
changed more in form than in substance. While the country continued to inch away from the bizarre and repressive legacy of long-
ruling president Saparmurat Niyazov, who died in late 2006, progress toward a more free society remained minimal. New contacts
with the outside world were generally limited to business and political leaders vying to secure access to Turkmenistan’s massive
natural gas reserves.
Niyazov’s death in December 2006 from an apparent heart attack was followed by the rapid and seemingly well-orchestrated
ascent of Deputy Prime Minister Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov to the position of acting president. The succession appeared to
circumvent constitutional norms, as criminal charges were brought against Mejlis Speaker Ovezgeldy Atayev, who would have
become acting president according to the constitution. Berdymukhammedov subsequently cemented his formal status, easily
besting five obscure ruling-party candidates in a February 2007 presidential election that was not monitored by any international
observers.
Berdymukhammedov removed Niyazov loyalists from high posts in 2007 and appeared to be firmly in control by 2008. He also took
steps to phase out the cult of personality that had taken shape around his predecessor, ordering the removal of public portraits and
a reduced emphasis on the Ruhnama. In August 2008, the Halk Maslahaty voted without public debate to approve a new
constitution, effectively dissolving itself and dispersing its powers to the Mejlis and the president. Elections for an expanded Mejlis
were held in December, but all of the nearly 300 candidates were preapproved by the presidential administration.
Berdymukhammedov changed Niyazov’s isolationist foreign policy, visiting Saudi Arabia, China, Iran, the United States, and the
European Union and improving long-strained ties with Azerbaijan. In April 2008, he attended a NATO summit in Romania, where he
met with U.S. president George Bush amid reports of possible cooperation to support NATO operations in Afghanistan. Natural gas
sales dominate Turkmenistan’s relations with the outside world, with China building a new pipeline link to the country even as
Russia strives to maintain control over the bulk of its gas exports and the European Union seeks access. An outside audit in 2008
confirmed the extent of Turkmenistan’s gas reserves, ensuring continued fierce competition among foreign companies and
governments to curry favor with the country’s ruler.
Click here to read more »
11 November 2009
URGENT ACTION
TURKMENISTAN ENVIRONMENTAL ACTIVIST RELEASED
On 6 November, male environmentalist Andrei Zatoka was released after he paid a fine of 1,000 Manat (about US$350). Eight days
earlier, on 29 October, he had been sentenced to five years' imprisonment after an unfair trial. According to sources in
Turkmenistan,his release was on the condition that he renounced his Turkmen citizenship and left the country.
Andrei Zatoka, a 53-year-old environmentalist with both Turkmen and Russian citizenship, was arrested by police in his home city
of Dashoguz, northern Turkmenistan, on 20 October on charges of “hooliganism”. He was later charged with inflicting injuries of
“medium severity”.
Andrei Zatoka’s conviction by the Dashoguz City Court was based on an investigation which was neither effective nor thorough.
Amnesty International believes that he was targeted because of his peaceful work as an environmental activist, and considered him
to be a prisoner of conscience. The organization called on the authorities to release him (see http://www.amnesty.
org/en/library/info/EUR61/007/2009/en).
On 6 November, Andrei Zatoka’s case was reconsidered by the Dashoguz Regional Court. The Court ruled that at his trial,
Dashoguz City Court had not given due regard to mitigating factors such as his environmental activity, his reputation as a scientist
and his cooperation with law enforcement on environmental issues. His prison sentence was commuted to a fine. Having paid the
fine, Andrei Zatoka and his wife left Turkmenistan for Russia on 7 November.
Amnesty International will continue to monitor Andrei Zatoka's situation.
Thanks to all those who took action on behalf of Andrei Zatoka. No further appeals are required.
This is the first update of UA 286/09 (EUR 61/006/2009).Further information: http://www.amnesty.
org/en/library/info/EUR61/006/2009/en
Further information on UA: 286/09 Index: EUR 61/008/2009 Issue Date: 11 November 2009
Click here to read more »
URGENT ACTION
TURKMENISTAN ENVIRONMENTAL ACTIVIST RELEASED
On 6 November, male environmentalist Andrei Zatoka was released after he paid a fine of 1,000 Manat (about US$350). Eight days
earlier, on 29 October, he had been sentenced to five years' imprisonment after an unfair trial. According to sources in
Turkmenistan,his release was on the condition that he renounced his Turkmen citizenship and left the country.
Andrei Zatoka, a 53-year-old environmentalist with both Turkmen and Russian citizenship, was arrested by police in his home city
of Dashoguz, northern Turkmenistan, on 20 October on charges of “hooliganism”. He was later charged with inflicting injuries of
“medium severity”.
Andrei Zatoka’s conviction by the Dashoguz City Court was based on an investigation which was neither effective nor thorough.
Amnesty International believes that he was targeted because of his peaceful work as an environmental activist, and considered him
to be a prisoner of conscience. The organization called on the authorities to release him (see http://www.amnesty.
org/en/library/info/EUR61/007/2009/en).
On 6 November, Andrei Zatoka’s case was reconsidered by the Dashoguz Regional Court. The Court ruled that at his trial,
Dashoguz City Court had not given due regard to mitigating factors such as his environmental activity, his reputation as a scientist
and his cooperation with law enforcement on environmental issues. His prison sentence was commuted to a fine. Having paid the
fine, Andrei Zatoka and his wife left Turkmenistan for Russia on 7 November.
Amnesty International will continue to monitor Andrei Zatoka's situation.
Thanks to all those who took action on behalf of Andrei Zatoka. No further appeals are required.
This is the first update of UA 286/09 (EUR 61/006/2009).Further information: http://www.amnesty.
org/en/library/info/EUR61/006/2009/en
Further information on UA: 286/09 Index: EUR 61/008/2009 Issue Date: 11 November 2009
Click here to read more »
Human Rights Watch Letter to the EBRD in Advance of its Review of Turkmenistan
March 1, 2010
Board of Directors
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)
Re: EBRD Country Strategy Review for Turkmenistan
Dear Directors,
We are grateful for the opportunity to comment on the Bank's draft strategy on Turkmenistan and appreciate its effort to solicit and
consider comments by nongovernmental organizations.
In this letter we ask the Bank to stay true to its Article 1 mandate and to continue its suspension of public sector investment in
Turkmenistan until such time as the Turkmen government makes credible progress toward meeting benchmarks the Bank has set
for it.
In the three years since the death of "president-for-life" Saparmurat Niazov, Turkmenistan's govenment has taken some steps
forward to alleviate the tyranny with which Niazov had ruled. It released some political prisoners, allowed a handful of people
previously banned from leaving the country to travel abroad, and reinstated pensions and the ninth year of compulsory education.
These are all welcome steps. But to date there is no evidence to indicate a commitment on the part of the government to the kinds
of reforms that would eventually bring it into compliance with the political aspects of Article 1. Moreover, the government has
followed each of these small steps forward with several steps backward, showing utter disregard for its human rights obligations
and demonstrating a lack of commitment to reform. Such steps backward include the arrest and subsequent banning from the
country of civil society activist Andrei Zatoka in fall 2009, and new, arbitrary restrictions on travel imposed in summer 2009,
preventing students enrolled in private universities abroad to leave Turkmenistan. As will become clear from the below overview of
human rights concerns, the government resists genuine human rights reform and remains one of the most repressive in the world.
We are therefore alarmed by the significant shift being proposed to the Bank's approach to Turkmenistan, which would lift the
Bank's longstanding suspension of public sector lending in recognition of what the draft strategy describes as "recent progress in
the political and economic spheres." In light of the Turkmen government's continually appalling human rights record, we do not
consider such a shift to be justified, or consistent with the Bank's Article 1 mandate. We are concerned that by effectively
abandoning its principled stance the Bank is undermining the cause of human rights in Turkmenistan and jeopardizing its integrity as
an institution genuinely committed to the values embedded in Article 1. The Turkmen government cannot but interpret this shift as
the Bank backtracking on its reform demands laid out in previous Bank strategies, and could possibly even see it as an endorsement
of its repressive policies.
Click here to read more »
March 1, 2010
Board of Directors
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)
Re: EBRD Country Strategy Review for Turkmenistan
Dear Directors,
We are grateful for the opportunity to comment on the Bank's draft strategy on Turkmenistan and appreciate its effort to solicit and
consider comments by nongovernmental organizations.
In this letter we ask the Bank to stay true to its Article 1 mandate and to continue its suspension of public sector investment in
Turkmenistan until such time as the Turkmen government makes credible progress toward meeting benchmarks the Bank has set
for it.
In the three years since the death of "president-for-life" Saparmurat Niazov, Turkmenistan's govenment has taken some steps
forward to alleviate the tyranny with which Niazov had ruled. It released some political prisoners, allowed a handful of people
previously banned from leaving the country to travel abroad, and reinstated pensions and the ninth year of compulsory education.
These are all welcome steps. But to date there is no evidence to indicate a commitment on the part of the government to the kinds
of reforms that would eventually bring it into compliance with the political aspects of Article 1. Moreover, the government has
followed each of these small steps forward with several steps backward, showing utter disregard for its human rights obligations
and demonstrating a lack of commitment to reform. Such steps backward include the arrest and subsequent banning from the
country of civil society activist Andrei Zatoka in fall 2009, and new, arbitrary restrictions on travel imposed in summer 2009,
preventing students enrolled in private universities abroad to leave Turkmenistan. As will become clear from the below overview of
human rights concerns, the government resists genuine human rights reform and remains one of the most repressive in the world.
We are therefore alarmed by the significant shift being proposed to the Bank's approach to Turkmenistan, which would lift the
Bank's longstanding suspension of public sector lending in recognition of what the draft strategy describes as "recent progress in
the political and economic spheres." In light of the Turkmen government's continually appalling human rights record, we do not
consider such a shift to be justified, or consistent with the Bank's Article 1 mandate. We are concerned that by effectively
abandoning its principled stance the Bank is undermining the cause of human rights in Turkmenistan and jeopardizing its integrity as
an institution genuinely committed to the values embedded in Article 1. The Turkmen government cannot but interpret this shift as
the Bank backtracking on its reform demands laid out in previous Bank strategies, and could possibly even see it as an endorsement
of its repressive policies.
Click here to read more »
03.03.2010
State News Agency of Turkmenistan (TDH)
Regular issue of Democracy and Right Journal appears in print
A regular issue of the Democracy and Right Journal printed by the Turkmen National Institute for Democracy and Human Rights
under the President of Turkmenistan in the Turkmen, Russian and English languages is devoted to the critical aspects of the current
nation-building process and the important events in the life of the Turkmen state and society in the epoch of new Revival.
The issue begins with the President’s keynote speech on further development of the national science in the priority fields delivered
during the meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan on June 12, 2009. The issue contains the Turkmen leader’s historic
speech at the 64th session of the UN General Assembly, which drew a wide response worldwide, and the text of the press
conference on the outcomes of his visit to the United States given by the President of Turkmenistan in New York last autumn.
The readers can find a number of the materials including the articles “Constitution of the epoch of new Revival” devoted to the
basic law of the country that lays the firm foundation for comprehensive development of the Turkmen state and society in the new
historical epoch.
The article “the Legal Foundation of International Politics: Firmness of the Principles and Aiming at the Future” spotlights the steps
taken by Turkmenistan to further strengthen the international legal framework of its foreign policy and diplomacy in compliance
with modern realities.
Several articles focus on legal regulation of the activities of public organisations in Turkmenistan and the CIS countries.
The issue is illustrated with the colour photographs and printed at the Printing Centre of the Turkmen State Publishing Service.
Click here to read more »
State News Agency of Turkmenistan (TDH)
Regular issue of Democracy and Right Journal appears in print
A regular issue of the Democracy and Right Journal printed by the Turkmen National Institute for Democracy and Human Rights
under the President of Turkmenistan in the Turkmen, Russian and English languages is devoted to the critical aspects of the current
nation-building process and the important events in the life of the Turkmen state and society in the epoch of new Revival.
The issue begins with the President’s keynote speech on further development of the national science in the priority fields delivered
during the meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan on June 12, 2009. The issue contains the Turkmen leader’s historic
speech at the 64th session of the UN General Assembly, which drew a wide response worldwide, and the text of the press
conference on the outcomes of his visit to the United States given by the President of Turkmenistan in New York last autumn.
The readers can find a number of the materials including the articles “Constitution of the epoch of new Revival” devoted to the
basic law of the country that lays the firm foundation for comprehensive development of the Turkmen state and society in the new
historical epoch.
The article “the Legal Foundation of International Politics: Firmness of the Principles and Aiming at the Future” spotlights the steps
taken by Turkmenistan to further strengthen the international legal framework of its foreign policy and diplomacy in compliance
with modern realities.
Several articles focus on legal regulation of the activities of public organisations in Turkmenistan and the CIS countries.
The issue is illustrated with the colour photographs and printed at the Printing Centre of the Turkmen State Publishing Service.
Click here to read more »
Annual Report on Human Rights 2009
(2010/3/27)
United Kingdom Foreign & Commonwealth Office
Turkmenistan
In areas such as freedom of expression, the rule of law, and the treatment of political prisoners, the evidence is either of inaction or
further retrograde steps.
In 2009, there were indications that Turkmenistan was backtracking on previous improvements and commitments to human rights.
The Turkmen government continues to state that it is ready for dialogue with the international community but this is not matched
by concrete action. In areas such as freedom of expression, the rule of law, and the treatment of political prisoners, the evidence is
either of inaction or further retrograde steps.
The slow pace of change is exacerbated by the lack of representative government. Although Parliament was increased from 65 to
125 members in December 2008, this has not resulted in any increase in transparency or democratic political process, and there
remains no real move towards introducing a parliamentary political opposition.
The UN system, the EU and individual EU Member States continue to offer support to the Turkmen authorities as they seek to fulfil
their human rights commitments. A third EU—Turkmenistan Enhanced Human Rights Dialogue took place in Brussels in June. For
the second time the Turkmen side accepted a list of individual human rights cases and agreed to respond in writing.
Disappointingly, the Turkmen government has yet to deliver a full response or fully comply with the recommendations it accepted
in the course of its UPR in December 2008.
In our contacts with the Turkmen authorities, the UK continues to encourage respect for human rights as an integral part of stable
and prosperous development and integration with the international economy. Through our Embassy in Ashgabat, we provided a
targeted programme of support to the relevant government agencies as well as the very few non-governmental bodies operating in
Turkmenistan.
This includes work with the Turkmen government’s National Institute for Democracy and Human Rights, which has allowed us to
share UK experience of drafting human rights legislation, working with UN Special Rapporteurs and ombudsmen systems and other
aspects of compliance with our international obligations.
Freedom of Expression
During 2009 there has been no improvement in respect of freedom of expression or freedom of association. Turkmenistan is
classified by Reporters without Borders as one of 12 countries that is an enemy of the internet. All media is tightly controlled, with
no independent newspapers or television or radio stations. News coverage consists primarily of a chronicle of official events with
no independent editorial comment.
Journalists who cooperate with foreign media have been subject to harassment and arbitrary detention. Working with the National
Institute for Democracy and Human Rights, the British Embassy has provided advice on the reform of legislation regulating media
activity and has sponsored workshops on media regulation with experts from the BBC World Service Trust, Oxford University and
other bodies.
Click here to read more »
(2010/3/27)
United Kingdom Foreign & Commonwealth Office
Turkmenistan
In areas such as freedom of expression, the rule of law, and the treatment of political prisoners, the evidence is either of inaction or
further retrograde steps.
In 2009, there were indications that Turkmenistan was backtracking on previous improvements and commitments to human rights.
The Turkmen government continues to state that it is ready for dialogue with the international community but this is not matched
by concrete action. In areas such as freedom of expression, the rule of law, and the treatment of political prisoners, the evidence is
either of inaction or further retrograde steps.
The slow pace of change is exacerbated by the lack of representative government. Although Parliament was increased from 65 to
125 members in December 2008, this has not resulted in any increase in transparency or democratic political process, and there
remains no real move towards introducing a parliamentary political opposition.
The UN system, the EU and individual EU Member States continue to offer support to the Turkmen authorities as they seek to fulfil
their human rights commitments. A third EU—Turkmenistan Enhanced Human Rights Dialogue took place in Brussels in June. For
the second time the Turkmen side accepted a list of individual human rights cases and agreed to respond in writing.
Disappointingly, the Turkmen government has yet to deliver a full response or fully comply with the recommendations it accepted
in the course of its UPR in December 2008.
In our contacts with the Turkmen authorities, the UK continues to encourage respect for human rights as an integral part of stable
and prosperous development and integration with the international economy. Through our Embassy in Ashgabat, we provided a
targeted programme of support to the relevant government agencies as well as the very few non-governmental bodies operating in
Turkmenistan.
This includes work with the Turkmen government’s National Institute for Democracy and Human Rights, which has allowed us to
share UK experience of drafting human rights legislation, working with UN Special Rapporteurs and ombudsmen systems and other
aspects of compliance with our international obligations.
Freedom of Expression
During 2009 there has been no improvement in respect of freedom of expression or freedom of association. Turkmenistan is
classified by Reporters without Borders as one of 12 countries that is an enemy of the internet. All media is tightly controlled, with
no independent newspapers or television or radio stations. News coverage consists primarily of a chronicle of official events with
no independent editorial comment.
Journalists who cooperate with foreign media have been subject to harassment and arbitrary detention. Working with the National
Institute for Democracy and Human Rights, the British Embassy has provided advice on the reform of legislation regulating media
activity and has sponsored workshops on media regulation with experts from the BBC World Service Trust, Oxford University and
other bodies.
Click here to read more »
17 April 2009
THE INSTITUTE OF DEMOCRACY AND HUMAN RIGHTS ORGANIZES WORKSHOP ON IMPLEMENTATION OF
CEDAW RECOMMENDATIONS
ASHGABAT, TURKMENISTAN – On 17-18 April 2009, the National Institute for Democracy and Human Rights under the
President of Turkmenistan and UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund in Turkmenistan, have conducted a workshop for the
members of the Inter-ministerial Commission on Human Rights within the framework of the joint project TKM2G11A “Promoting
women’s reproductive rights”.
This workshop was organized to strengthen national capacity in implementation of CEDAW concluding observations and final
recommendations in light of preparation of the national combined CEDAW report to be submitted by the Government of
Turkmenistan in 2010. This workshop was led by Ms. Navamanee Ratna Patten, CEDAW expert/UNFPA international consultant.
Members of the Commission looked through final recommendations in detail and discussed concrete measures to implement
CEDAW recommendations. They also addressed ways and means of a better coordinated approach in the preparation of the next
national CEDAW report which is due in 2010.
The Inter-ministerial Commission of Treaty Bodies reporting has been established in 2007. The Commission is responsible for
preparation and monitoring of the country’s international reporting obligations.
“Taking the reporting obligations seriously and addressing measures to implement the recommendations of the Committee are
positive signals of the Political will of the Government to ensure substantive equality between women and men in Turkmenistan” -
commented Ms. Navamanee Ratna Patten, CEDAW Expert/UNFPA international consultant.
Click here to read more »
THE INSTITUTE OF DEMOCRACY AND HUMAN RIGHTS ORGANIZES WORKSHOP ON IMPLEMENTATION OF
CEDAW RECOMMENDATIONS
ASHGABAT, TURKMENISTAN – On 17-18 April 2009, the National Institute for Democracy and Human Rights under the
President of Turkmenistan and UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund in Turkmenistan, have conducted a workshop for the
members of the Inter-ministerial Commission on Human Rights within the framework of the joint project TKM2G11A “Promoting
women’s reproductive rights”.
This workshop was organized to strengthen national capacity in implementation of CEDAW concluding observations and final
recommendations in light of preparation of the national combined CEDAW report to be submitted by the Government of
Turkmenistan in 2010. This workshop was led by Ms. Navamanee Ratna Patten, CEDAW expert/UNFPA international consultant.
Members of the Commission looked through final recommendations in detail and discussed concrete measures to implement
CEDAW recommendations. They also addressed ways and means of a better coordinated approach in the preparation of the next
national CEDAW report which is due in 2010.
The Inter-ministerial Commission of Treaty Bodies reporting has been established in 2007. The Commission is responsible for
preparation and monitoring of the country’s international reporting obligations.
“Taking the reporting obligations seriously and addressing measures to implement the recommendations of the Committee are
positive signals of the Political will of the Government to ensure substantive equality between women and men in Turkmenistan” -
commented Ms. Navamanee Ratna Patten, CEDAW Expert/UNFPA international consultant.
Click here to read more »
| Click map for larger view |
| Click flag for Country Report |
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow
President since 14 February 2007
President since 14 February 2007
| TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS |
None reported.