The government controls all branches of state, including the judiciary, media, and security services. Independent political activity is strictly forbidden, and all opposition parties are banned
LONDON: Turkmenistan, a resource-rich Central Asian nation with one of the largest natural gas reserves in the world, continues to be one of the most repressive and opaque countries globally. Behind a carefully crafted image of national unity and prosperity lies a troubling reality of widespread human rights violations and endemic corruption.
Since its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, Turkmenistan has been ruled by an authoritarian regime that tolerates no dissent. The late President Saparmurat Niyazov, and his successor Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow—followed by his son Serdar—have maintained a tight grip on power. The government controls all branches of state, including the judiciary, media, and security services. Independent political activity is strictly forbidden, and all opposition parties are banned.
Freedom of expression is virtually nonexistent. State media is used solely to promote the leadership, and independent journalism is not allowed. Access to foreign media and the internet is heavily restricted, with many websites blocked and surveillance widespread. Citizens who dare to speak out against the regime risk arrest, torture, forced disappearances, or worse.
Human rights organizations such as Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have consistently reported grave abuses in Turkmenistan. Political prisoners remain behind bars under harsh conditions, often without access to legal representation or fair trials. Religious freedom is tightly restricted, with unregistered groups frequently harassed or banned outright.
Enforced disappearances are a particular concern. Many political opponents and critics of the regime have simply vanished into the prison system, with families left in the dark about their loved ones’ fate. Torture and inhumane treatment in detention facilities are common, and prison conditions are often described as cruel and degrading.
Turkmenistan’s vast natural gas wealth has done little to improve the lives of its citizens. Instead, it has enriched a small elite while most of the population lives in poverty. Transparency International ranks Turkmenistan among the most corrupt countries in the world. The government’s finances are shrouded in secrecy, and there is little to no accountability for public spending.
Public officials and family members of the ruling elite are reportedly involved in large-scale embezzlement and money laundering. International companies operating in Turkmenistan are often required to pay bribes or partner with politically connected firms, reinforcing systemic corruption.
The international community has largely turned a blind eye to Turkmenistan’s abuses, primarily due to energy interests and regional stability concerns. However, sustained pressure is crucial. Human rights must be a central part of all diplomatic and economic engagements with Ashgabat. Sanctions targeting individuals involved in human rights violations and corruption, along with support for civil society and independent media in exile, can help pave the way for greater transparency and reform.
The people of Turkmenistan deserve more than silence from the world. Their suffering should not be ignored behind the veil of gas pipelines and grandiose state propaganda.
