Introduction

The 2023 U.S. Department of State Turkmenistan Human Rights Report highlights severe and persistent human rights violations against activists and politicians in Turkmenistan. These violations include arbitrary detentions, torture, and restrictions on freedom of expression and movement. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the key findings from the report, illustrating the systemic oppression faced by those who oppose or criticize the Turkmen government.

Arbitrary Detentions and Torture

The report reveals that arbitrary detentions and torture are common practices used by the Turkmen government to silence dissent. Individuals who criticize the government or advocate for human rights are frequently detained without due process and subjected to severe mistreatment. Notable cases include independent journalist Nurgeldy Khalykov and civil society activist Murat Dushemov. Both were detained in the eastern Lebap region and reported experiencing torture and other forms of ill-treatment while in detention​ (Human Rights Watch)​​ (Wikipedia)​.

Moreover, political prisoners often face harsh conditions and lack access to necessary medical care. Mansur Mingelov, a human rights activist suffering from advanced skeletal tuberculosis, has been repeatedly denied medical treatment while in prison​ (Amnesty International)​.

Political Prisoners and Enforced Disappearances

Turkmenistan’s government has a notorious record of imprisoning political opponents following unfair, closed-door trials. The exact number of political prisoners remains unknown, but estimates suggest that dozens of individuals are held on politically motivated charges. Enforced disappearances are also rampant, with some individuals missing for up to 20 years. Families of these prisoners are typically barred from any contact and denied information about their loved ones’ fate or whereabouts. According to the “Prove They Are Alive” campaign, around 162 people have been forcibly disappeared in Turkmen prisons, with at least 27 dying in solitary confinement​ (Human Rights Watch)​​ (Wikipedia)​.

Family Harassment and Threats

The regime’s oppressive tactics extend beyond the activists themselves to their families. Relatives of exiled activists often face harassment and intimidation. For instance, Dursoltan Taganova, an activist based in Turkey, reported that Turkmen security services questioned her 12-year-old son and attempted to recruit him as an informant. This strategy aims to pressure activists into ceasing their activities by threatening their family members​ (Amnesty International)​.

Freedom of Expression and Media Control

Freedom of expression in Turkmenistan is severely restricted. The state maintains strict control over the flow of information, owning or controlling all print and electronic media. Independent media outlets and foreign journalists are banned, and social networks and messaging apps are frequently blocked. VPNs, though not illegal, are heavily restricted, with users facing potential imprisonment for using them. This extensive censorship is designed to suppress any reporting on issues such as economic hardship, food shortages, and forced labor​ (Human Rights Watch)​​ (Amnesty International)​.

Forced Labor

Forced labor remains a significant issue in Turkmenistan, particularly in the cotton industry. Thousands of public sector workers, including women who form the majority of this workforce, are coerced into participating in the cotton harvest. Although the government denies these allegations, independent monitors and human rights organizations continue to report widespread forced labor practices​ (Human Rights Watch)​​ (Amnesty International)​.

Suppression of Peaceful Dissent

The Turkmen authorities continue to stifle all forms of public criticism and peaceful dissent, both domestically and internationally. Peaceful protests are met with severe repression, including detentions and beatings. In one instance, around 30 women were detained in Ashgabat for protesting police corruption. They were held without food and water for over six hours and forced to sign statements before their release​ (Amnesty International)​.

Conclusion

The 2023 report underscores the dire human rights situation in Turkmenistan, where activists and politicians face relentless oppression. The government’s practices of arbitrary detention, torture, enforced disappearances, and suppression of free expression create an environment of fear and repression. The international community must continue to pressure the Turkmen government to respect human rights and ensure justice for those who have been wrongfully detained or mistreated.

Sources

• U.S. Department of State Turkmenistan Human Rights Report 2023
• Human Rights Watch
• Amnesty International
• Wikipedia

These sources provide a comprehensive view of the ongoing human rights abuses in Turkmenistan, highlighting the need for continued international attention and action.

Ayna Matiyeva

12/05/2024