Chapter I. Situation on Ensuring and Observing Human and Civil Rights and Freedoms in Turkmenistan.

Chapter II. Civil and Political Rights.

Chapter III. Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.

Chapter IV. Analysis of Citizens’ Appeals.

Chapter V. Activities of the Ombudsman to Assist in the Improvement of National Legislation.

Chapter VI. Participation of the Ombudsman in Public Events. Assisting in Raising Human Rights Awareness.

Chapter VII. International Cooperation.

Chapter VIII. Inquiries and Recommendations of Ombudsman.

Chapter IX. Conclusion.

Introduction 

Protection and promotion of human rights and freedoms constitute a key aspect of state policy of our country. Fundamental human rights such as a right to life, work, education, health protection, rest, a right to vote and be elected, a right to privacy of every individual and a right to marry and start a family - are guaranteed by Basic Law and other legislation of the country. These guarantees are evidence that Turkmenistan is based on democratic values and the rule of law. In our country, a special focus is placed on ensuring justice and protection of human rights. In view of this, huge work is being carried out to ensure justice in society and compliance with the norms established by laws. Contribution to the activities carried out in sphere of human rights falls within statutory mandate of the Ombudsman - Authorized Representative for Human Rights in Turkmenistan.

Since its establishment as a separate independent institution, Authorized Representative for Human Rights in Turkmenistan - Ombudsman has been operating as a national body, which complements existing State means of protection human and civil rights and freedoms and protects human rights in the country.

As in previous years, in 2025 – the International Year of Peace and Trust, Office of Ombudsman kept issues of observance of human rights and freedoms at the center of its attention and summarized work, which was carried out in this sphere in this Report. This Report provides an analysis of situation with regards to promotion and observance of human and civil rights and freedoms in Turkmenistan, implementation of civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights as well as outcomes of reviewing appeals of citizens in this sphere. Beyond that, it highlights the work directed to facilitating improvement of national legislation, participation in public events, assistance in raising awareness of human rights, international cooperation as well as requests and recommendations of Ombudsman.

Pursuant to Article 20 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman, this Report shall be submitted to President of Turkmenistan for consideration. The Ombudsman will deliver this Report to Mejlis of Turkmenistan. In addition, Report of Ombudsman for 2025 will be published in Turkmenistan mass media and on the official website of the Office of Ombudsman (ombudsman.gov.tm), making it available to broad public.

Chapter I. Situation on Ensuring and Observing Human and Civil Rights and Freedoms in Turkmenistan

Human and civil rights and freedoms in Turkmenistan are recognized in accordance with generally accepted rules of international law and guaranteed by the Constitution and laws of Turkmenistan. Promotion, protection and respect for human and civil rights and freedoms constitute main priorities of state policy of President of Turkmenistan. Our country has acceded to over 40 international human rights conventions, consistently integrating their provisions into national legislation and law enforcement practices. Being a member of prestigious international organizations, Turkmenistan is consistently elected to governing bodies of UN specialized agencies. Large-scale transformations carried out by Government of Turkmenistan foster advancement of human rights protection system and establishment of effective mechanisms for exercising these rights and freedoms.

This activity was continued effectively in 2025. Human rights situation in each country is assessed by degree to which rights to life, freedom, equality of rights, education, healthcare, participation in public governance and other fundamental rights are realized. The year of 2025 that is designated as the International Year of Peace and Trust, coincided with the 30^th anniversary of Turkmenistan permanent neutrality. In three decades since achieving this legal status, the United Nations has adopted numerous resolutions initiated by Turkmenistan including three landmark resolutions recognizing our state’s permanent neutrality. Above-mentioned reflects high standing of our state on international arena and international community’s strong endorsement of Turkmenistan’s political strategy. In addition, one of the most important events of the year was proclamation by the United Nations of 2025-celebrating both the 30^th anniversary of Turkmenistan permanent neutrality and the 80^th anniversary of the UN as International Year of Peace and Trust. This event is clear evidence of the global triumph of foreign policy of our Homeland, rooted in positive neutrality and principles of peace and mutual trust. Guided by these principles, Turkmenistan consistently fulfills its international commitments, solidifying its reputation as a global center for peacekeeping.

Legal status of neutrality of our Homeland is inextricably connected with strict observance of human rights and freedoms. Recognition of human rights and freedoms within the context of legal status of permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan as the primary value of society and the state along with prioritization of these rights and freedoms in state policy, are enshrined in the Basic Law of the country – Constitution of Turkmenistan as key principles of the Turkmen state. Legal status of neutrality of the country guarantees a peaceful life not only for Turkmen people but also contributes to maintaining peace both in the region and the world.

Notwithstanding intricate international situation, internal and foreign policies implemented under leadership of the President of Turkmenistan remain a key testament to democratic reforms of the country, which is aimed at safeguarding human rights and freedoms and ensuring favorable living conditions; over the past year, these policies consistently focused on improving public welfare and strengthening social protection of population. All this contributed to ensure stable economic growth and gave momentum to government agencies working for people benefit. Moreover, progress has been achieved in economy, industry, agriculture, science, education, healthcare, culture, sports and other spheres. These large-scale efforts were aimed at safeguarding civil, political, economic, social and cultural human rights. To confirm this, it is worth highlighting the key work accomplished in the country over the last year.

Regarding activities carried out to secure public well-being and protect economic rights that are both key priorities of state policy then, first of all, it shall be highlighted several milestones from 2025 stand out in terms of safeguarding social rights of citizens, namely, 2 villages and 1 town were established, 6 water treatment facilities, power plants and three cultural and entertainment centres and parks were put into operation; in order to support a right to housing, 130 residential buildings with 830 appartments were constructed; a right to education was advanced with opening of 14 new educational institutions and kindergartens, while a right to healthcare was supported by 2 new medical institutions; in addition, to uphold labour rights, 9 facilities were built to create new jobs. It also shall be noted that over 76% of the 2025 budget funds had been allocated directly to social sector development.

At the same time, human rights-oriented policy of Turkmenistan is implemented by adopting national legislation that complies with international standards as well as thematic programs and plans carried out in cooperation with international organizations to achieve Sustainable Development Goals till the period of 2030. Protection and promotion of human rights and freedoms are reflected in the legislation of Turkmenistan as well as in all socio-economic, political, cultural and other programs. To confirm this, special focus shall be placed, first and foremost, on the Constitutional Law of Turkmenistan On Legal Foundations of Policy of Peace and Trust of Neutral Turkmenistan and Resolution of Mejlis of Turkmenistan On Declaring the year of 2025 as International Year of Peace and Trust. Based on legal status of neutrality of independent Turkmenistan, these legislative acts aim to maintain stability both at regional and global level, to develop effective cooperation built on valuable political experience gained from establishing friendly relations rooted in mutual trust and equal partnership with foreign nations and relevant international organisations in for interest of peace, global security and sustainable development. Definition in the Constitutional Law of Turkmenistan On Legal Foundations of Policy of Peace and Trust in Neutral Turkmenistan of such principles as respect for human rights and freedoms, mutual respect, prevention of disputes and their peaceful resolution in the list of basic principles of the Law is evidence that observance and enforcement of human rights and freedoms is given a special place in internal and foreign policy of the country.

In context of implementation of State policy in such areas as ensuring and protecting human rights, strict observance of economic, political, civil, social and cultural rights of citizens, improving well-being and housing conditions as well as material well-being of people, successful implementation of programs and strategies approved by relevant Resolutions of President of Turkmenistan in the year under review shall be noted.

Among them:

- National Human Rights Action Plan in Turkmenistan for 2021–2025;

- Program: Revival of the New Era of Independent State: National Program for Socio-Economic Development of Turkmenistan for 2022–2052;

- National Program of the President of Turkmenistan on Transformation of Socio-Living Conditions of Population of Villages, Towns, Cities of Etraps and Etrap Centers for the Period up to 2028;

- National Action Plan for Implementation of Children’ Rights in Turkmenistan for 2023-2028;

- Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework between Government of Turkmenistan and the United Nations for 2021-2025;

- Socio-Economic Development Program of Turkmenistan for 2019-2025;

- National Strategy for Early Childhood Development in Turkmenistan for 2020-2025;

- State Program on State Youth Policy of Turkmenistan for 2021–2025;

- Program for Socio-Economic Development and Investment of Turkmenistan in 2025 and other acts in sphere of human rights and freedoms.

Last year, which was designated as International Year of Peace and Trust was marked for our country by several major international events under its opendoor policy and global partnerships on human rights and freedoms. In this context, among important events of last year the following shall be highlighted: Conference International Year of Peace and Trust: Cooperation of Turkmenistan with International Community, which took place on 15 January, 2025 at the Institute of International Relations of Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Another milestone of 2025 was the Forum commemorating both the 30^th anniversary of legal status of permanent neutrality of Turkmenistan and the 80^th anniversary of the United Nations.

In addition, designation by the UN of 2025 as International Year of Peace and Trust at initiative of Turkmenistan clearly demonstrates recognition by global community of country’s dedication to fostering world peace and sustainable development.

Among significant events of 2025, special attention shall be also be made to “International Conference Year of Peace and Trust: Development of International Activities for the Sake of Children”, which was held in March as well as the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries and International Conference “Role of Women in Modern Society: Developing International Cooperation towards Achieving Sustainable Development Goals”, which was held in August.

Main political event of last year was International Forum on the occasion of International Year of Peace and Trust, International Day of Neutrality, and the 30^th anniversary of permanent neutrality of Turkmenistan held in December in Ashgabat with participation of heads of several world states and relevant international organizations. This International Forum became a large-scale, significant event on global political and diplomatic agenda and Ashgabat Declaration adopted as per its outcomes became a document of strategic importance. The call for peace, dialogue and mutual respect made at the forum, which is an integral part of foreign policy of Turkmenistan based on principle of permanent neutrality was met with great enthusiasm.

Support for initiatives of our country in international relations together with enhancement of authority of the country at international standing also reinforces responsibility to fulfill its international commitments. Given the importance of honoring these international obligations and national legal safeguards for human rights, Office of Ombudsman secures state protection for human and civil rights and freedoms. It ensures they are respected and upheld by state and local government bodies, public officials and all enterprises, institutions and organizations, regardless of ownership type as well as other individuals.

In accordance with Article 4 of Basic Law - Constitution of Turkmenistan, in Turkmenistan the highest value of society and the state is a person and protection, support and service of a person are defined by main tasks of state authorities. Despite the fact that the Government pays great attention to observance and realization of human rights and freedoms, in the practice of Ombudsman there are cases of violations of these rights by some institutions, enterprises and public officials. 

To review the situation on human rights in the country, it is necessary to determine which issues are the most important for people whether social, economic or political rights and freedoms, require immediate action and where awareness-raising efforts for institutions and businesses needs to be intensified. For this purpose, an analysis was carried out on appeals submitted to Office of Ombudsman and raised during regional public receptions held by Ombudsman as well as year-round inspections conducted based on Annual Work Plan of the Office of Ombudsman, particularly in Homes for the elderly and disabled, orphanages and specialized facilities alongside ongoing cooperation with various institutions and enterprises regarding citizens’ appeals.

In accordance with Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman, appeals of citizens are considered through organization of receptions of citizens at Office of Ombudsman and via written submissions. In 2025, Office of Ombudsman received 676 appeals. In this chapter of Report, it is deemed expediential to focus on main issues raised in these appeals. In particular, 111 (16.4%) appeals are related to housing rights, 48 (7.1%) to labour rights and 44 (6.5%) to migration issues. In accordance with above-mentioned indicators, it is concluded that, despite annual increase in housing construction across the country, issue of housing provision remains urgent and requires analysis by state authorities.

In accordance annual Work Plan of the Office of Ombudsman, receptions of citizens were organized in velayats within the year as per results of which the following was revealed: in Balkan velayat, 44% of appeals of applicants concern issues related to employment and 28% related to housing provision; in Dashoguz velayat, 75% of applicants have gas and water supply issues; in Lebap velayat, 22.5% of appeals of applicants related to housing provision and 15% related to land plots issues (allocation of household land plots and through lease agreements); in Mary velayat, 37.5% of applicants raise the issue of housing provision. Relevant work is being carried out with Hyakimliks of velayats on all these matters.

Based on above-mentioned analysis, it can be concluded that special attention shall be given to addressing issues related to implementation of right to housing, improvement of living conditions, employment as well as land issues in velayats, namely, provision of land plots as adjacent household plots and through concluding of lease agreements.

In accordance with analysis, it is necessary for Office of Ombudsman to carry out joint activities with state authorities, private sector institutions and public organizations. It is also necessary to note significant role of legal awareness of population in ensuring and implementing human and civil rights and freedoms. For increasing legal literacy of population and legal protection of citizens, a comprehensive approach is required to enhance legal knowledge and establish monitoring of human rights compliance. As it is seen from practice, formation of a legal culture and literacy shall start as early as possible, i.e., at an early age. In the epoch of widespread mass media and technological progress, role of internet in this matter should not be underestimated. Undoubtedly, it will be effective to systematically conduct a work on raising awareness with participation of specialists in sphere of public legal awareness and education as well as to organize round-table discussions and seminars.

In comparison with 2024, quantity of appeals from citizens submitted to Office of Ombudsman increased by 20.41%. On one hand, this indicates raising of awareness among population regarding the activities of the Office of Ombudsman and their knowledge of methods for protecting human and civil rights and freedoms. On other hand, it indicates to necessity to intensify efforts addressing above-mentioned issues.

Relevant chapters of this Report provide an overview of state of affairs with regards to ensuring of civil, political, economic, social and cultural human and civil rights and freedoms in our country; they also highlight outcomes of activities of the Office of Ombudsman for the year under review as well as present results of analysis of appeals along with recommendations issued by Ombudsman based on carried out work.

Chapter II. Civil and Political Rights

As it is widely recognized, International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and its Optional Protocol are among the foundational international human rights instruments to which our country is a signatory. By integrating provisions of these documents into its internal legislation, Turkmenistan actively translates their norms into practice. This Chapter of Report reviews implementation of civil and political human rights nationwide in 2025 and outlines Ombudsman’s initiatives in this regard.

Speaking of ensuring promotion of civil and political human rights nationwide, focus first of all shall be placed on legal foundations of these rights of people, particularly on the work, which is carried out on improvement in accordance with international standards and enforcement of the times.

In the year under review, below-mentioned laws were adopted, in which civil and political rights were embedded while amendments and additions were introduced to existing legislation. Among them:

- Constitutional Law of Turkmenistan On Legal Foundations of the Policy of Peace and Trust of Turkmenistan;

- New edition of Civil Code of Turkmenistan;

- Law of Turkmenistan About the Unified State Register of Voters;

- New edition of Law of Turkmenistan On the Courts.

As well as relevant amendments and additions were made to Criminal Code, Criminal Procedure Code, Criminal Executive Code, Customs Code, Laws of Turkmenistan on Administrative Procedure, About the State Secrets and On Migration.

Adoption of above-mentioned laws has strengthened legal basis for observance of civil and political human rights in political life of the state and in civil-social relations.

One of significant political events of the year under review in our country was celebration of the 30^th anniversary of permanent neutrality of Turkmenistan, which has been thrice recognized by the UN General Assembly. On the occasion of this major date, a forum was held that brought together leaders of various countries as well as heads and representatives of international organizations for discussing issues of peace and burning problems of today’s world.

International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights establishes obligations for States Parties to bring national legislation and policies in sphere of civil and political human rights into line with provisions of this document as well as to submit reports on implementation of these norms. Our country steadfastly fulfills these requirements.

As in previous years, in 2025 Office of Ombudsman carried out specific work aimed at ensuring respect for civil and political human rights. In this context, one of the main areas of Ombudsman’s activity was monitoring of observance of rights of convicted persons in pretrial detention centers, temporary detention facilities, correctional institutions and other specialized institutions.

With the purpose of fulfilling these tasks as provided for by Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman and annual Work Plan of the Office of Ombudsman approved by Ombudsman, Ombudsman keeps the issues of compliance with legal requirements in above-mentioned institutions at the center of constant attention.

In the year under review, as part of monitoring of implementation of rights of convicted persons sentenced to deprivation of liberty, inspections were conducted not only in correctional facilities where convicts serve their sentences, but also in pretrial detention centers and specialized rehabilitation centers, specifically, in facilities MR-E/13 of Police Department in Mary Velayat, BL-E/5 of Police Department in Balkan Velayat and specialized rehabilitation center AH-M/4 of Police Department in Ahal Velayat of Ministry of Internal Affairs of Turkmenistan.

In the course of held inspections in above-mentioned institutions, Ombudsman focused primarily on ensuring rights of women and juveniles who belong to a specific group of convicted persons.

As it was noted, last year Ombudsman inspected facility MR-E/13 of Police Department in Mary Velayat where juveniles are held that belong to above-mentioned category of convicted persons. As before, during inspection, living conditions of persons being brought up in the facility were examined including compliance with sanitary standards, provision of proper nutrition, availability of opportunities for cultural leisure and sports and compliance with legally established standards for ensuring rights to education, health care, freedom of religion and submission of applications and complaints regarding their rights as well as opportunities for short-term and long-term visits with close relatives. Living conditions for convicts in this facility comply with international standards. Renovation work on the dormitory, canteen, school and gym was last carried out in 2019. During the inspection, it was established that, compared to the corresponding period of the previous year, number of convicts had slightly increased by the end of the period under review.

By the end of the year under review, only 26% of convicts were juveniles; remaining consisted of convicts who had reached the age of majority and in compliance with requirements of Article 127 of Criminal Executive Code of Turkmenistan were held in this correctional facility until reaching the age of twenty-one. During the inspection, it was established that there were no persons with disabilities among the convicts.

Conditions for spiritual and cultural leisure of the convicts were created in the facility. As it was established, there is a library with a collection of 6,742 copies of various books and magazines in Turkmen and foreign languages (Russian, English, French, Farsi, Chinese, Uzbek). The library is used daily by dozens of readers. On the day of inspection there were readers in the library - convicted persons who were reading books in Turkmen, Russian, English and Farsi. The Ombudsman had a conversation with each of them.

Medical unit of the facility provides appropriate conditions for diagnosing and treating the illnesses of convicted persons. As it was determined, upon arrival at facility MR-E/13, convicted juveniles undergo a health check-up. At the time of the inspection, none of the convicts had been diagnosed with tuberculosis and none had been referred to medical facilities for surgery. In 2025, no one underwent inpatient treatment at the medical unit, while 25 juveniles who requested medical assistance received outpatient treatment.

It was also established that medical unit and pharmacy are sufficiently supplied with medicines and there are no expired drugs. A psychological service has been successfully established at the facility. It shall be noted that recommendations to implement psychological work with convicted juveniles and to fill the psychologist vacancy were put forward based on results of inspections held by Ombudsman for previous years. These proposed recommendations have been put into practice.

As it was noted in previous Reports, the facility has indoor (winter) and outdoor (summer) gyms, a sports ground and a Cultural center where all necessary conditions for cultural leisure and the pursuit of vocal and musical arts including various musical instruments available for use by convicted persons.

Additionally, it was established that convicted persons utilize services of a shop located in territory of the facility that operates under Ministry of Trade and Foreign Economic Relations of Turkmenistan. No expired goods were found in the shop.

In the course of inspection, it was established that in secondary school No. 14 of Bayramali city located in the territory of this facility, there are 7 active classes with a total of 30 students and 10 teachers. At the same time, there are 6 teacher vacancies. During the period under review, 11 convicts received their secondary education certificates. Furthermore, the school provides opportunities for vocational training. In the 11^th and the 12^th grades, a two-year course for basic vocational training in sewing is offered and a special certificate is issued upon its completion. During the inspection, Ombudsman conducted group and individual interviews with convicted persons. No complaints were raised during the meetings.

Along with this, during the inspection it was established that in accordance with legal requirements, conditions have been created for visits with relatives and communication through means of telecommunication, receiving and sending parcels and small packets as well as receiving deliveries.

In 2025, 8 applications from convicted persons were registered in applications registration book, 7 of which were requests for a certificate of school enrollment and 1 was an application requesting consent to enter into a real estate transaction and the requests were satisfied.

During the period under review, Office of Ombudsman didn’t receive any appeals from convicted juveniles who had been held criminally responsible, nor from their close relatives or legal representatives.

As per results of the inspection, Ombudsman submitted a proposal to Ministry of Internal Affairs of Turkmenistan with regards to bringing disciplinary isolation cell into compliance with provisions of Item II. 37 of Internal Rules of Correctional Institutions of Ministry of Internal Affairs of Turkmenistan; this proposal also addressed examining reasons for albeit minor increase in number of convicts admitted in 2025 and committing of repeat offenses by juveniles as well as strengthening local crime prevention measures.

During inspection of facility BL-E/5 of Police Department in Balkan velayat, provision of rights of people held in this facility was reviewed mainly focusing on issues related to compliance with sanitary standards in their living quarters, compliance with legally established rights to health care, food as well as rights to submit applications and complaints regarding their rights. In addition, the issue was examined regarding compliance of facility’s activities with provisions of Penitentiary Code of Turkmenistan. During the inspection, it was established that a building was designed to hold 300 convicts was put into operation in 2017. For time of inspection, few detained persons were being held in the facility, namely those found guilty by a court decision and people under preliminary investigation. Among them: 1 woman, 1 man with a disability (eye disorder) and 1 elderly person (born in 1941); there were no juveniles or foreign citizens.

During the inspection of the work that is carried out in the field of health care for convicts, it was established that at the time of the inspection, medical service of the facility consisted of 3 medical staff: head of the unit (with a higher education), a medical assistant and a nurse (with a secondary specialized education), 2 positions were vacant. Within a year, 3 people utilized services of hospital to receive medical assistance as per procedure established by law.

Food of convicts is provided based on document on meal types and diet approved daily by Deputy head of the facility. On the day of the inspection, inspection coincided with lunch, which was found to correspond to the approved menu.

Persons held in the facility are engaged in general labour activities based on personal consent and they are paid salaries in the amount established by the state budget. In accordance with staff list, there are 8 positions for performing general labour activities. At the time of the inspection, there were no persons engaged in work. In 2025, 1 person was engaged in performing general labour activities. As per the application, he has worked at his own free will and based on the order in the canteen during the period from 11 September 2025 till 18 October 2025. No cases of violation of labour legislation were identified with respect to convicted persons engaged in labour.

For the persons held in this facility, conditions were created for use of library services. The library has 706 books in total, 370 among them are in Turkmen, 295 are in Russian and 41 are in other foreign languages.

For the purpose of inspection, living conditions of people held in the facility and having private conversations with them, Ombudsman visited wards and held separate meetings with a woman, a man with a disability and one elderly convict. During the meeting with convict with disability who raised a complaint expressing dissatisfaction with investigation progress, Ombudsman explained provisions of relevant laws to him, provided appropriate recommendations and also proposed management of Police Department in Balkan velayat to arrange verification of facts indicated by convicts and keep progress of the investigation under control.

At the same time, inspection was conducted on compliance with legal requirements when reviewing applications submitted to facility’s management by people held in the pretrial detention center and their relatives. For 11 months of 2025, 10 applications were received from relatives of persons held in the facility. Applications were registered in log No. 64 in accordance with the established procedure. From them, 3 regarding submission of application to relevant Notary office and 7 regarding obtaining powers of attorney. All of them were satisfied. In addition, 2 applications were received from convicts themselves, which were also registered in log No. 77 in accordance with the established procedure. Both applications that expressed dissatisfaction with court sentences were forwarded to relevant authorities in accordance with established procedure.

Thus, despite general compliance with provisions of legislation, certain violations were identified at the facility BL-E/5. In view of this, Ombudsman provided recommendations on eliminating existing shortcomings, specifically concerning transfer of convicted persons sentenced to imprisonment to respective correctional institutions to serve their sentences without delaying established timeframes; strengthening control to ensure that convicts do not use expired medicines and medical devices as well as installation of special scanning equipment at checkpoint to inspect parcels, deliveries, small packets sent to the convicts.

As it was noted above, within last year under review, Ombudsman also visited specialized rehabilitation institutions. Thus, at the specialized rehabilitation center AH-M/4 of Ahal velayat Police Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Turkmenistan, compliance with requirements of legislation of Turkmenistan regarding people that undergo treatment was reviewed including Law of Turkmenistan On measures related to the treatment of persons suffering from alcoholism and drug addictions or substance abuse and Regulations on the procedure for keeping persons undergoing treatment in specialized rehabilitation centers of Ministry of Internal Affairs of Turkmenistan.

In this specialized rehabilitation center, inspection was held on compliance with sanitary standards in living premises of people that undergo treatment, creation of conditions for health restoration, food, cultural leisure, sports activities, labour engagement, submission of appeals regarding their legal rights as well as compliance of opportunities for visits with close relatives with legal requirements.

For the time of inspection, 921 persons were undergoing treatment in the rehabilitation facility, which was designed for 850 people, at the same time, 71 people excess. Increasing of 71 persons in the number of residents is explained by their transfer from other localities to central facility for treatment and maintaining internal order.

Many of people held in rehabilitation institution are provided with job places. There are 48 people engaged in work related to agricultural production. They are paid salaries in the amount established by the state budget. At the production enterprise located in territory of the Centre, 64 people are employed and volume of their salaries depends on volume of manufactured products. There are 22 people working in the sewing workshop and 42 people in metalworking and woodworking workshops. Brick production, as it was found out, has been temporarily suspended. In the course of inspection, it was established that working conditions in Center’s metalworking and woodworking workshops are unsatisfactory.

Inspection of living conditions of people that undergo treatment at the specialized Rehabilitation center showed that in general they comply with requirements of law. Particularly, in the dormitories or units people with prior criminal records and people that undergo treatment for infectious diseases are kept separately from healthy people; individuals suffering from alcoholism are separated from those suffering from drug addiction; and, as far as possible, people that could make a negative influence on others are also kept separate from others.

People that undergo treatment at specialized Rehabilitation center are provided with special uniforms for winter period. Bedrooms are equipped with mattresses, blankets, pillows, bed linen and towels. Thus, sanitary standards are maintained in the blocks.

In course of inspection, it was established that food supply for people that undergo treatment here is carried out in accordance with Attachment No. 1 to Order No. 119 of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Turkmenistan dated 10 May, 2014, on 24-hour food supply of people held in correctional institutions, pretrial detention centers and specialized Rehabilitation centers as well as based on a document on product and meal types and diet approved daily by Head of specialized Rehabilitation center AH-M/4.

Rehabilitation center is properly equipped with medical equipment. The medical equipment is located in separate rooms for doctors. People that are brought to Center to undergo primary medical examination, diagnostics and treatment in the medical block. In exceptional cases, they are transported to medical facilities located in this region under guard.

Rehabilitation Department that is established within the framework of European Union project CADAP operates at Specialized Rehabilitation Center. In this Department special rehabilitation work is conducted with people that have three months remaining until the end of their treatment period. In 2025, 76 people have undergone rehabilitation in the institution’s specialized rehabilitation Department. It was established that at the time of the inspection, 20 people were undergoing treatment in the Department. An individual conversation was held with each of them.

People that undergo treatment at specialized Rehabilitation Center, have an opportunity to use library. The library has 2,026 books, mainly in Turkmen language. There are also books available in English and Russian languages.

In 2025 Center received 27 applications from relatives of people undergoing treatment. 6 applications regarding early discharge of people undergoing treatment and 21 applications regarding obtaining certificates and powers of attorney. The applications were reviewed in accordance with procedures and timeframes established by law. In the course of inspection, it was found that no complaints were received from people undergoing treatment at Rehabilitation center. Absence of complaints from people undergoing treatment in respect of Center’s personnel or about disputes among themselves or for any other reasons, to some extent appears unconvincing.

In the course of inspection, shortcomings were revealed at Rehabilitation center, despite general compliance with legal requirements. In view of this, Ombudsman gave a proposal to eliminate several identified shortcomings. Particularly, this concerns filling vacant positions at the facility to ensure proper treatment of people staying at the Center including providing a narcologist-psychiatrist; considering reasons for increased relapse rate among people that previously have undergone treatment at Rehabilitation center and strengthening measures to prevent such cases and ensuring that working conditions comply with safety regulations, especially in the metalworking and woodworking workshops.

In addition to above-mentioned, information is collected on implementation of recommendations provided by Ombudsman in previous years to Ministry of Internal Affairs of Turkmenistan with regards to organization of work of correctional institutions in compliance with requirements of legislation of Turkmenistan and adherence to sanitary standards in buildings where convicts are held, namely, on practical implementation of proposals concerning construction of new buildings for correctional institutions or carrying out renovation work.

Speaking on implementation of rights of convicted persons in our country, it should be noted that based on humanitarian policy of President of Turkmenistan, thousands of convicts are free pardoned annually, released from serving further punishment and provided with conditions to atone for their guilt. Guiding by principles of mercy and humanism of our ancestors and with the purpose of preserving unity and integrity of Turkmen society and ultimately, every family, in International Year of Peace and Trust, this humane campaign was carried out 4 times and a total of 1,030 convicted citizens including 6 foreign nationals were free pardoned based on Decrees of President of Turkmenistan.

One of Ombudsman’s functions in ensuring compliance with civil and political human rights is review of citizens’ complaints with regards to violation of these rights. Within the year under review, office of Ombudsman received a total of 167 written and 83 verbal appeals concerning civil and political rights. From them, 8 written appeals were satisfied. Civil and political rights issues are mainly related to dissatisfaction with actions of law enforcement officials and court orders as well as with issues of migration, residency registration, criminal cases and criminal offenses. This is covered in detail in Chapter IV of Report of Ombudsman. In respect of appeals on civil and political human rights violations, Ombudsman carried out relevant work jointly with law enforcement agencies, military authorities and other departments.

As per results of analysis of providing political and civil rights of citizens in the country and as a result of the Ombudsman’s activities in this sphere, with the purpose of assisting citizens in matters of compliance with these rights, it is proposed, as in previous years:

– to implement recommendations submitted by Ombudsman to Ministry of Internal Affairs of Turkmenistan, including those on bringing conditions of detention for persons in correctional institutions whose buildings were constructed in earlier years into compliance with legal requirements as well as on carrying out relevant work for construction of new buildings.

 Chapter III. Economic, Social and Cultural Rights

Activity, which is carried out in independent, permanently neutral Turkmenistan in sphere of implementation of economic, social and cultural human rights is oriented to ensuring decent living conditions including rights to work, education, health protection, housing, social security and participation in cultural life.

As in previous years, in 2025, a significant part of the State Budget expenditures was directed to development of social security, education, healthcare, culture, sports and housing sector. This contributed to raising social and living standards of the population during International Year of Peace and Trust.

Last year large-scale work was carried out across all sectors of national economy to transform social and living conditions of people. As the result of comprehensive measures implemented, gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate increased by 6.3 percent compared with 2024 and volume of manufactured products increased by 10.2 percent. Revenue plan of the State Budget was executed at 101.5 percent and the expenditure plan at 99.7 percent. Wages at large and medium-sized enterprises in the country grew by 11.9 percent in comparison with 2024. Wages, pensions, state benefits and student stipends were timely financed. Undoubtedly, these indicators testify to decent living conditions created for our people.

In the year under review, economy of the country developed at a steady pace and necessary work was carried out to establish modern enterprises producing competitive, high-quality goods as well as to maintain economic and financial stability and increase employment among population. In addition to that, activities were continued to increase country’s export potential and to widely introduce digital technologies into various sectors.

With the purpose of ensuring economic, social and cultural rights of citizens, national legislative framework was improved in 2025 and a number of modern laws were adopted to implement a socially oriented policy. Primary goals of this policy are to raise standard of living of population, create new jobs by improving employment system and increase labour efficiency, education levels, intellectual and cultural potential, life expectancy, activization of youth policy and provision of social security for citizens. Thus, Laws of Turkmenistan On Approval and Enactment of Civil Code of Turkmenistan, On Court, On the State Budget for 2026, On Virtual Assets and On Scientific Intellectual Property were adopted. In addition, by introducing relevant amendments and additions, existing laws were improved, establishing norms that regulate, along with other matters, provision of economic, social and cultural rights of person and citizen. Examples of this include Laws of Turkmenistan On Amendments and Additions to Labour Code of Turkmenistan and Law of Turkmenistan On Amendments and Additions to Certain Legislative Acts of Turkmenistan, which introduced amendments and additions to Labour, Family, Civil Procedure, Housing, Social Protection of Population, Administrative Offenses and Tax Codes as well as to Laws On State Pension Insurance, On Education, On State Youth Policy, On State Guarantees of Rights of Child, On Provision of Medicines, On Volunteerism, On Employment of Population, On Guardianship and Trusteeship, On Charitable Activity, On Physical Culture and Sports and On Social Services.

In the period under review, effective work was carried out to implement Program of the President of Turkmenistan on socio-economic development of the country for 2022-2028; buildings and facilities for social and cultural purposes as well as residential buildings, were constructed and commissioned.

In accordance with National Programme of President of Turkmenistan on Transforming Social and Living Conditions of Population of Villages, Towns, Cities of Etraps and Etrap Centers for the Period up to 2028 and in order to successfully fulfill tasks set for further improvement of social and living conditions of population in regions, National Programme of President of Turkmenistan on Transforming Social and Living Conditions of Population of Villages, Towns, Cities of Etraps and Etrap Centers for the Period up to 2028 was approved in a new edition, along with Programme for Socio-Economic Development and Investments of Turkmenistan for 2025. In 2025, capital investment deployment plan from all sources of financing was fully executed. Compared with 2024, this indicator increased by 6 percent.

In our country, great importance is attached to the construction of facilities for various purposes at state level, which harmoniously combine principles of national architecture with modern advanced experience in sphere of architecture. In the period under review, work was carried out with the purpose of implementation of constitutional right of every citizen to access comfortable housing; in particular, construction of residential buildings was consistently implemented. On the occasion of celebration of the 30^th anniversary of permanent neutrality of Turkmenistan and International Day of Neutrality, citizens were presented with keys to modern homes in Arkadag city and in honor of International Women’s Day, several mothers were awarded with honorary degree Ene mähri of Turkmenistan and they were granted keys to appartments.

Speaking on residential buildings commissioned during the period under review, it shall be noted opening of houses in Myalikguly Berdimuhamedov residential complex of Ministry of Internal Affairs of Turkmenistan in the Buzmeyin etrap including those intended for persons with disabilities and citizens in particular need of social support as well as in Parahat 7/1 housing development and in Mary city of Mary velayat. This demonstrates that Government takes care of citizens in need of special social protection including implementation of constitutional right to housing for persons with disabilities, providing them with fully accommodated housing. As the result, with the purpose of ensuring citizens’ right to housing, residential buildings with a total area of 645 thousand square meters were commissioned last year in velayats, cities and etraps of the country. Construction of industrial facilities, kindergartens, schools and other infrastructure was also carried out on a planned basis.

With the purpose of successfully implementing tasks planned in Programme of President of Turkmenistan for Socio-Economic Development of Country for 2022-2028, National Programme of President of Turkmenistan on Transforming Social and Living Conditions of Population of Villages, Towns, Cities of Etraps and Etrap Centers for the Period up to 2028 in its new edition and creating necessary socio-economic conditions for population, following were established in September last year by Resolution of Mejlis of Turkmenistan: Altyn Asyr etrap in Ahal velayat; Garashsyzlyk and Gubadag etraps in Dashoguz velayat; Farap, Dovletli and Garabekevul etraps in Lebap velayat and Oguzhan etrap in Mary velayat. The purpose of this is to facilitate further improvement of population’s living conditions and ensure dynamic socio-economic development of the country. Good examples of conditions that are created for prosperous life of rural residents include opening of modern villages of Dovletli Mekan in Ongaldy gengesklik of Ak Bugday etrap and Bagtly Zamana in Govshut gengesklik of Kaka etrap in Ahal velayat as well as new, modern Bitaraplyk settlement in the territory of Taze Yol gengesklik of Koneurgench etrap in Dashoguz velayat.

With the purpose of creating conditions for cultural leisure, access to clean potable water and ensuring food abundance for population, number of facilities were constructed across all parts of the country under leadership of President of Turkmenistan. Among industrial and social facilities commissioned over last year: a plant for production of ceramic facing tiles and sanitary ware products in Baharden etrap of Ahal velayat, a wastewater treatment facility with a capacity of 10 thousand cubic meters per day in Dushak town in Kaka etrap, a 220/110/35/10 kV electrical substation in Tejen etrap, a glass production workshop and a potable water production enterprise in Gokdepe etrap, an international airport with a capacity of 100 passengers per hour in Jebel town, a highway bridge across the Garabogazkol Gulf, a water treatment facility with a capacity of 20 thousand cubic meters per day in Esenguly etrap of Balkan velayat, a wastewater treatment facility with a capacity of 5 thousand cubic meters per day in Hojambaz etrap of Lebap velayat and a water treatment facility with a capacity of 20 thousand cubic meters per day in Tagtabazar etrap of Mary velayat.

As it was noted above, with the purpose of providing housing and improving living conditions of our people, a large number of residential buildings were commissioned in 2025. However, despite this, last year Office of Ombudsman received 111 appeals regarding housing issues, of which 66 were written and 45 were verbal. Among them, 3 written appeals were satisfied.

Main goal of state educational policy is the upbringing of honorable young generation and ensuring they receive a modern education. In this context, transformations are carried out to improve national educational sphere, implement constitutional rights of citizens to education, raise an intellectually educated generation, improve curricula and programs and strengthen material and technical base of educational system. In addition, work was carried out to widely apply advanced teaching methods. A number of higher education institutions organized international scientific-practical and educational-methodological conferences as well as international olympiads. The II International Mathematical Olympiad was successfully held among school students. Based on results of international and internet olympiads held among pupils and students, a total of 815 medals were won. The happy first-grade children of secondary schools in the country were presented with 137 thousand 54 domestic-made laptops Bilimli as gifts.

Comprehensive care for children, creation of favourable conditions for their physical and spiritual development, ensuring children’s rights to education and strengthening health protection are key aspects of socially oriented policy carried out in our country. Evidence of conditions created in the country to ensure a happy future for children includes the International Exhibition-Fair Kids EXPO: Everything for Children that was held during the period under review, song and music events, creative contests, theatrical and circus performances on the occasion of International Children's Day and organization of recreation during summer holidays in children’s camps and health centers located in Gokdere Gorge and velayats of the country.

In October 2025 by Decree of President of Turkmenistan, Strategy for Development of Higher Professional Education in Turkmenistan for 2026-2052 and Action Plan for its implementation for 2026-2030 were approved. During the period under review, on the occasion of Knowledge and Student Youth Day, dozens of modern educational institutions were commissioned. Among them: International University of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs, new additional academic buildings of State Energy Institute of Turkmenistan as well as kindergartens with 160 places in Parahat housing district and with 320 places each in Choganly housing district of Bagtyyarlyk etrap, in Buzmeyin etrap, in Yasmansalyk housing district of Bagtyyarlyk etrap of Ashgabat, in Ongaldy gengesklik of Ak Bugday etrap, in Govshut gengesklik of Kaka etrap and in Bamy village of Baharden etrap of Ahal velayat. Secondary schools were also commissioned, including one with 160 places in Taze Yol gengesklik of Koneurgench etrap in Dashoguz velayat, one with 320 places in Ak Yap village of Ak Yap gengesklik in Sakarchaga etrap of Mary velayat, schools with 960 and 720 places in Parahat housing district, a school with 720 places in Choganly housing district of Bagtyyarlyk etrap of Ashgabat city, schools with 640 places each in Ongaldy gengesklik of Ak Bugday etrap and Govshut gengesklik of Kaka etrap in Ahal velayat, a school with 420 places in Taze Yol gengesklik of Koneurgench etrap in Dashoguz velayat and a school with 400 places in Bekaryk village of Hojaili gengesklik in Charjev etrap of Lebap velayat. All of this is the result of ongoing educational policy aimed at providing education and upbringing for younger generation in accordance with modern realities, increasing their interest in learning, developing their creative potential and training highly qualified specialists.

In higher education institutions of the country, learning process through digital system is actively developing. In last year, extensive work was done to improve educational and methodological support including publication of modern textbooks and manuals. Electronic dictionaries, reference guides and mobile applications were developed in Turkmen language and key languages of the United Nations. Within framework of comprehensive work that is carried out for improvement quality of teaching and professional training of educators, professional development seminars for teachers and heads of educational institutions were conducted based on national and international experience. In the period under review, international cooperation in sphere of education was increased in Turkmenistan. Cooperation was strengthened with leading foreign universities, research centers and academic organizations including specialized UN agencies such as Development Programme, Children’s Fund, Population Fund and UNESCO, with which joint projects are implemented. As a result of achieved intergovernmental agreements Turkmen youth is sent to study at higher education institutions in foreign countries.

Along with educational sphere development, scientific potential of our state is consistently strengthened. As an example of this, successful performance and winning of a gold medal by young scientists of Turkmenistan in international competition Borneo BIICC 2025, which was held in June in Kuching, Malaysia. In total, 2025 became significant in terms of building up the scientific and intellectual potential of national scientific and educational sphere.

Based on analysis of work that is carried out in educational sphere, it can be seen that number of schools commissioned in country is increasing. For example, if in 2024-2025 academic year number of schools was 1,905 and number of students was 1,685,152 (including 825,104 girls), in 2025-2026 academic year number of schools reached 1,910 and number of students reached 1,717,980 (including 840,900 girls). A comparison shows that number of students including girls, has grown. As per results of analysis, in 2024-2025 academic year, number of first-grade children was 146,065 whereas in 2025–2026 academic year, their number stood at 131,523. As it can be seen, number of first-graders has decreased.

If we speak about admissions to higher and secondary vocational educational institutions, it shall be noted that if in 2024-2025 academic year, 16,080 students were admitted to higher educational institutions (including 7,758 girls) and 10,303 students to secondary vocational educational institutions (including 7,335 girls), in 2025-2026 academic year, 16,666 students were accepted into higher educational institutions (including 8,183 girls) and 9,788 students into secondary vocational schools (including 7,313 girls).

Work was also carried out for development of physical culture and sports, training professional athletes. As confirmation of ongoing activities effectiveness for development of physical culture and sports, we shall mention hosting of international tournaments in Goresh national wrestling and Alysh belt wrestling as well as in chess among athletes aged 8, 10 and 12. Members of country’s national team participated in international competitions and won a total of 818 medals. In overall, medal standings at the World Rapid and Blitz Championship, Turkmenistan won first place and became a winner. In total, 19 medals were won: 7 gold, 6 silver and 6 bronze. Turkmen youth have secured victory in international competitions, were honored with gifts from President of Turkmenistan.

As in previous years, in accordance with Work Plan of the Office of Ombudsman for 2025, human rights compliance was monitored in educational institutions and inspections were carried out in certain establishments. As an example, we shall mention the inspection held at Orphan Asylum in Balkanabat city of Balkan velayat, during which compliance with rights of residents in Orphan Asylum was inspected including social, living, sanitary and hygienic conditions, organization of meals as well as constitutional and other documents of institution. Proposals with regards to shortcomings identified during inspection, were sent to Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan on compliance with sanitary standards, regulating children’s dining system, providing assistance in securing housing for residents upon graduation, strengthening educational and upbringing work with children and bring to disciplinary measures employees who allowed these shortcomings. 

Last year, in 2025, Office of Ombudsman Office received 5 written appeals regarding rights of citizens to education, one of which was satisfied.

Right of citizens to health protection is one of the priority areas of state policy. Effective work was carried out in healthcare sector. In accordance with Saglyk State Programme, advanced methods of therapeutic and preventive activity were introduced into practical medicine. Within 2025, surgeries were made for 189 sick children using funds from Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Fund for Assistance to Children in Need of Care and 100 sick children living in velayats of country and Ashgabat received treatment at Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Health and Rehabilitation Center. International cooperation was also pursued in this direction. Thus, we shall mention the XII Turkmen-German Healthcare Forum, Immunization Week held jointly with the UN Children’s Fund and Turkmenistan Day at the headquarters of World Health Organization in the city of Copenhagen (Kingdom of Denmark).

Within indicated period, great attention was paid to consistent development of healthcare and strengthening of system’s material and technical base. With the purpose of implementation constitutional rights in spher of citizens’ health protection and ensuring access to healthcare, significant importance was attached throughout last year to architectural and construction work in healthcare sphere.

On the occasion of professional holiday of healthcare and medical industry workers, a Health Center in Ashgabat, Velayat tuberculosis hospital in Mary velayat, Etrap multidisciplinary hospital in Tejen and Ene mähri multidisciplinary Health center in Dashoguz were commissioned and foundation for multidisciplinary hospital was laid in capital city. International exhibition and scientific conference Healthcare, Education, and Sports in the Era of Renaissance of the New Epoch of the Powerful State were held at a high level.

Despite large volume of work that is carried out in sphere of healthcare, based on results of analysis, one can see increase in number of persons with disabilities. Thus, while as of 1 January 2025, number of persons with disabilities was 201,593 as of 1 January 2026, their number reached of 207,151.

For last year, with the purpose of monitoring compliance with rights of persons in need of assistance, Ombudsman inspected homes for persons with disabilities and elderly people in Dashoguz, Lebap and Mary velayats.

In the course of inspection of homes for persons with disabilities and elderly people in above-mentioned velayats, constituent and other documents were reviewed as well as living conditions, namely sanitary-hygienic conditions and meals organization for those residing in homes for elderly people. As a result of inspections, it was established that sanitary-hygienic standards are not properly observed and violations were identified regarding health rehabilitation, provision of potable water, food and equipment. It was also noted that job descriptions do not comply with requirements of Labour Code of Turkmenistan and Law of Turkmenistan On State Service.

Proposals were submitted to Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan on eliminating identified shortcomings including those related to inadequate hot water supply, improving quality and volume of food, ensuring full compliance with rights to health protection and conducting educational work in these institutions to prevent violations from occurring as well as regarding bringing to disciplinary measures in respect to employees who permitted these violations.

Based on submitted proposals, appropriate work was carried out in the said institutions, legal violations were eliminated and individuals who allowed shortcomings in the homes for persons with disabilities and homes for elderly people in Mary, Dashoguz and Lebap velayats were held accountable to disciplinary measures.

In 2025, Office of Ombudsman received 9 written appeals related to right to health protection, 1 of which was satisfied.

Improvement of social and living conditions of people and ensuring their social protection are defined among priority directions of state policy and are included in key tasks of state programs.

Efficient work was carried out in sphere of social security as well as in supporting people in need of social protection, improving effectiveness of support provided to them and developing the sector of social services.

Women are treated with great respect in our country. In 2025, festive events were held in honor of International Women’s Day, which is celebrated annually to honour happy women of the country. On behalf of President of Turkmenistan, monetary gifts were presented and as per Decree of President of Turkmenistan, honorary title Ene mähri was conferred upon 253 mothers who have given birth to and raised eight or more children. It also shall be noted that a provision on family court judges was introduced into Law of Turkmenistan On Courts. This is the result of work and efforts undertaken by state to strengthen family relations and to increase importance of justice in ensuring state protection for motherhood, fatherhood and childhood.

Women working in different sectors of industry engage in entrepreneurial activities and actively participate in social and political, social and economic and cultural life of the country, not only contribute to strengthening economic power of the country, but also increase their own economic potential.

Thus, in 2025, 29,102 persons engaged in private activity became members of the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan; 5,846 of whom were women. For last year, 579 people were admitted to the ranks of entrepreneurs, 118 of them, namely, more than 20% were women-entrepreneurs. In 2025, private sector of the country commissioned 28 different facilities and structures for production purposes, creating over 1,100 job places.

Also, in sphere of social security, for implementation of Code on Social Protection of Population and Law of Turkmenistan On Social Services, for safe living of elderly people, persons with disabilities and other special-group persons as well as for their equal participation in social life, a comprehensive set of measures is implemented in accordance with staff positions of institutions providing social services to elderly people and persons with disabilities to create conditions for them to independently solve emerging problems. And while previously number of social work specialists made at 45 units, last year an additional 10 units were introduced, bringing total number of social work specialists to 55, who were assigned across 36 cities and etraps of the country.

In 2025, Office of Ombudsman received 20 written appeals regarding social security rights, 10 of which were satisfied.

All necessary conditions are created in the country for studying and widely popularizing cultural heritage. In order to ensure cultural rights of every person, which is one of the priorities of state policy and to expand opportunities for citizens to participate in cultural events, extensive measures were taken in sphere of culture during the year under review. The work was carried out to preserve, study and popularize worldwide rich spiritual values and cultural heritage of our people, to develop cultural heritage and national values, to study them on a scientific basis, and to preserve them for future generations.

Different cultural events were held on the occasion of declaration of 2025 as International Year of Peace and Trust, the 34^th anniversary of our state’s independence and the 30^th anniversary of permanent neutrality. Thus, dozens of cultural events took place including final rounds of Chalsana, bagshy! competition among dutar players and bakhshi musicians in cities of Ashgabat and Arkadag and velayats of the country; song and music festival Music of Peace, Music of Friendship and Brotherhood; international festival Music of Peace; international dance and folklore festival Avaza-Land of Friendship; and presentation of new book by President of Turkmenistan, Magtymguly-Thinker of Peace. In addition to this, Culture Week dedicated to Day of Culture and Art Workers and Poetry of Magtymguly Fragi, allowed to explore diverse historical and cultural heritage of Turkmen people, who have made a massive contribution to treasury of world culture. Exhibitions of fine and applied arts, museum treasures and publishing products along with opera and theater productions, screenings of new films, literary and musical evenings, concerts by culture and art figures of the country and conferences and meetings held in Ahal velayat, were characterized by a richness of content and demonstrated results of large-scale activities carried out in cultural sphere of the country.

It shall be noted that work carried out in this area was recognized at international level. This is evidenced by: awarding of special prize at Open Eurasian Film Festival that was held for the first time in Moscow, film The Composer (produced by Turkmenfilm Association named after Oguzhan using funds from Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Fund for Assistance to Children in Need of Care); awarding of Certificate on inclusion of Ashgabat into UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities in December last year; and Certificate on inclusion of national nomination Art of Breeding Turkmen Alabay into UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

It also shall be particularly noted that in order to create favourable conditions for implementation cultural rights of people, buildings of social and cultural significance were commissioned during year under review, in particular, modern cultural and entertainment park XV Years of Independence of Turkmenistan in Ashgabat. International Year of Peace and Trust was rich in holidays and significant dates in cultural sphere. This year became one of the most productive in terms of implementation of cultural rights for every person including representatives of different nationalities.

In period under review, Office of Ombudsman received no appeals regarding violations of cultural rights.

By the state are created all necessary opportunities and conditions for implantation of legally enshrined right to work, which is considered one of the primary constitutional rights and simultaneously creating new job places. Ensuring decent working conditions and social justice are the core principles for developing labor relations in our country. At the same time, improvement of labour relations is one of the priorities of state policy that areimplemented in labour sphere.

In the period under review, work was carried out on further development of labour sphere. By Decree of President of Turkmenistan in September of year under review, Concept for Development of Labour Market of Turkmenistan until 2030 and Action Plan for its implementation were approved. Concept defines goals, tasks, primary directions for development of labour market in the country and expected results of its implementation. In accordance with this document, measures are planned to improve employment opportunities for population, upgrade legal framework of this system based on universally recognized norms of international law and expand range of digital services. In addition to implementation of these measures, plans include intensifying cooperation with International Labour Organization and studying matters such as access of our country to fundamental and priority conventions of this organization. Last year, Government of Turkmenistan and International Labour Organization signed Protocol on making amendments and additions to Memorandum of Understanding on reviewing working conditions in Turkmenistan during cotton harvest of 2023.

Beyond that, within framework of activities envisaged by Roadmap for Cooperation between Government of Turkmenistan and International Labour Organization for 2024-2025, analysis of compliance with labour standards during cotton harvest in velayats of the country was continued with participation of representatives from International Labour Organization. During the period under review, with the purpose of prevention the use of child labour in cotton harvest, Ombudsman submitted proposals to Office of Prosecutor General of Turkmenistan, Ministry of Internal Affairs of Turkmenistan, Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan and Hyakims of velayats to intensify efforts in this direction.

During analysis conducted by Office of Ombudsman into activities of labour and social protection institutions of Ashgabat, velayats, etraps and cities subordinated to Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of Population of Turkmenistan regarding residency registration and employment of job seekers, it was established that in January-December 2024, number of job seekers who applied to labour and social protection institutions was 25,987 people (including 115 people with disabilities), from them 18,468 were placed in jobs (including 103 of employed individuals having disabilities). Meanwhile, in January-December 2025, the number of job seekers was 26,807 people (including 104 people with disabilities), of whom 21,004 were placed in jobs (including 99 of the employed individuals having disabilities). These figures indicate an increase in both the total number of job seekers and the number of employed people.

Last year, in 2025, Office of Ombudsman received 48 appeals related to right to work, from which 39 were written and 9 were verbal. Among them, 6 written appeals were satisfied.

In general, noting that effective measures were taken and work was carried out in Turkmenistan last year to implement economic, social and cultural rights of every individual and citizen, we propose following to further enhance effectiveness of these activities in future:

- Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan shall strengthen control in order to prevent violations of legislative requirements regarding care of citizens in disabled persons homes and homes for elderly people as well as to enhance experience, awareness and responsibility of staff working in these institutions;

- create conditions for people with disabilities to access residential areas, social facilities and means of transportation and take into account capabilities and convenience for people with disabilities when designing housing, roads, social facilities and administrative buildings as well as when purchasing public transport;

- local labour and social protection bodies of Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of Population of Turkmenistan: exercise control over reporting of information on vacancies, number of citizens who applied for employment assistance, offered jobs and placements and ensure that people placed on the waiting list are kept well-informed.

Chapter IV. Analysis of Citizens’ Appeals 

Implementation and protection of human rights in the country, creation of decent living conditions for every person, provision of personal freedom and inviolability, social protection and further development of democratic institutions are priority tasks of state policy of Turkmenistan. Commitment to these principles is reflected in the essence of legal reforms implemented in the country as well as in functioning of institutional mechanisms for human rights protection.

Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman stipulates that the Ombudsman who is authorized representative for human rights in Turkmenistan is established in accordance with Constitution of Turkmenistan in order to ensure guarantees of state protection of human and civil rights and freedoms, their compliance and respect by public authorities, local self-government bodies and their officials, enterprises, institutions, organizations regardless of ownership form and other persons. Ombudsman is elected in accordance with specified provision, has been performing own duties since 2017 based on principle of independence.

In the year under review, Ombudsman exercised in full own powers to review complaints including those challenging decisions, actions or omissions of enterprises, institutions and organizations regardless of their form of ownership and their authorized representatives based on legislative provisions introduced on 30 November 2024, which strengthened legal framework of Ombudsman’s activities and expanded authority. More precisely, while previously Ombudsman reviewed complaints from persons and citizens regarding actions and omissions of state and local self-government bodies and their officials based on above-mentioned norms, they now also reviewed citizen appeals concerning private sector.

Thus, based on their content, appeals received by Office of Ombudsman during the year under review were examined and considered in respective departments of the Office.

Within designated period, Office of Ombudsman received 676 appeals, from which 475 were in written form and 201 were verbal. From 475 written applications and complaints received by Office of Ombudsman, 232 were forwarded to Department for Protection of Human Rights in State and Local Self-Government Bodies, 178 to Department for Protection of Women’s and Children’s Rights and 65 to Department for Protection of Human Rights in Private Sector. Out of 201 verbal appeals received by Office of Ombudsman, 125 were forwarded to Department for Protection of Human Rights in State and Local Self-Government Bodies, 47 to Department for Protection of Women’s and Children’s Rights and 29 to Department for Protection of Human Rights in Private Sector. These data are broken down by quarter in tables below.

As it can be seen from above indicators, number of registered written appeals in the second quarter increased compared with the first, third and the fourth quarters, while number of verbal appeals rose in the third quarter compared with the first, second and the fourth quarters.

Thus, compared with 2024, number of registered written appeals in 2025 increased by 93 (24.4%) and number of verbal appeals increased by 45 (28.9%).

This section of Report provides an overview of written appeals received by Office of Ombudsman within the year under review, in breakdown by regions.

As it can be seen from these indicators, significant portion of total number of written appeals received by Office of Ombudsman came from Dashoguz velayat, specifically 128 appeals, which in percentage terms accounts for 26.95%. This is followed by Ashgabat with 113 appeals (23.79%), Mary velayat with 86 appeals (18.11%), Lebap velayat with 58 appeals (12.2%), Balkan velayat with 54 appeals (11.37%) and Ahal velayat with 32 appeals (6.74%). The lowest number of appeals came from Arkadag - 4 appeals, or 0.84%.

In this section of Report, table below presents data on number of citizens who submitted written appeals to Office of Ombudsman within a year including collective appeals with an indication of their region of residence, gender and nationality.

As it can be seen from above stated data, in the year under review, total of 993 citizens submitted 475 written appeals, 49 of which were collective appeals submitted by 567 citizens. In comparison with 2024, within the year under review, a total of 681 appeals from 382 citizens were accepted for processing, 33 of which were collective appeals from 332 citizens.

Thus, within the year under review, number of collective appeals increased by 16, and number of citizens submitting collective appeals rose by 235. Above-shown data demonstrate that citizens who submitted written complaints to Office of Ombudsman are of different nationalities.

In accordance with Part one of Article 25 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman, Office of Ombudsman conducts its administrative proceedings in state language of Turkmenistan. Meanwhile, based on Part two of same Article, it is established that persons appealing to Ombudsman have a right to submit an application in their native language or in any other language that they speak. Consequently, citizen who submitted application receives a response in two languages: the state language and a translation into the language spoken by the applicant.

Citizens appealing to Ombudsman in written form raise various issues related to protection of their rights in their applications and complaints. Issues examined in each of these appeals were analyzed by regions and are presented in the table below.

In accordance with above analysis, number of written appeals submitted by citizens regarding dissatisfaction with execution of judicial decisions and actions of law enforcement officials as well as on matters related to criminal cases and offences and on clemency decreased compared with 2024. Particularly, within the period under review, 4 appeals were registered regarding dissatisfaction with judicial decisions, accounting for 0.84% of total number of appeals (compared with 10 appeals or 2.61% in 2024); 41 appeals related to dissatisfaction with actions of law enforcement officials, making up 8.63% of total number of appeals (compared with 52 appeals or 13.61% in 2024); 17 appeals on issues related to criminal cases and criminal acts representing 3.58% of total number of appeals (compared with 200 appeals or 5.23% in 2024) and 9 appeals on matters of clemency, which constitutes 1.89% of total number of appeals (compared with 10 appeals or 2.61% in 2024).

It shall be also noted that for certain issues number of appeals increased compared with previous year. Particularly, following were registered: 31 appeals on migration issues representing 6.53% of total number of appeals (compared with 27 appeals or 7.07% in 2024); 39 appeals regarding labour rights representing 8.21% of total number of appeals (compared with 32 appeals or 8.4% in 2024); 73 appeals on land law representing 15.37% of total number of appeals (compared with 33 appeals or 8.63% in 2024); 57 appeals regarding dissatisfaction with judicial decisions that constitutes 12% of total number of appeals (compared with 38 appeals or 9.94% in 2024); 5 appeals regarding right to education amounting to 1.05% of total number of appeals (compared with 2 appeals or 0.52% in 2024); 20 appeals related to social security that represents 4.21% of total number of appeals (compared with 1 appeal or 0.26% in 2024); 8 appeals related to residency registration issues representing 1.68% of total number of appeals (compared with 7 appeals or 1.83% in 2024); 66 appeals related to right to housing representing 13.9% of total number of appeals (compared with 59 appeals or 15.44% in 2024).

Appeals received related to right to housing in the year under review were not solely related to purchasing housing. Among them, 4 appeals representing 6.06% are related to improvement of housing conditions (compared with 3 appeals or 5.08% in 2024).

Number of appeals related to other matters also increased compared with 2024. Namely, 94 appeals were registered on these issues representing 19.8% of total number of appeals (compared with 72 appeals or 18.84% in 2024).

For certain matters, namely number of appeals related to guardianship and custodianship issues - figures in analyzed year of 2025 remained the same as in previous year (1 appeal or 0.21% in 2025 and 1 appeal or 0.26% in 2024). Regarding to banking activities issues 3 appeals were submitted in 2024 representing 0.8% of total number of appeals whereas no appeals were received on this matter in 2025.

As in previous years, other matters primarily concerned complaints of citizens related to property, family or neighbour disputes as well as issues related to debts, requests for clarification of legislation and dissatisfaction with actions of institution heads or officials. In addition, part of complaints concerned lack of responses to appeals submitted to institutions and organizations, dissatisfaction with responses received namely, regarding their lack of justification, failure to assist in obtaining necessary documents from institutions and organizations as well as various other matters arising in daily life.

In analyzing appeals, main attention was paid to the issue: which problems occur in specific regions. Particularly, for Ashgabat - include issues related to right to housing, improvement of housing conditions, residency registration, clemency, land rights, dissatisfaction with court decisions and actions of law enforcement officials as well as migration issues, criminal cases and criminal offences and other matters; for Balkan velayat - issues related to right to housing, improvement of housing conditions, labour rights as well as dissatisfaction with court decisions and other matters; for Dashoguz velayat - issues related to right to housing, labour law, land rights as well as dissatisfaction with court decisions and actions of law enforcement officials, migration issues and other matters; for Lebap velayat - issues related to land rights, dissatisfaction with court decisions, migration issues and other matters; for Mary velayat - issues related to right to housing, labour law, land rights, dissatisfaction with court decisions and actions of law enforcement officials, social security, migration issues and other matters; for Ahal velayat - issues related to right to housing and other matters; and for Arkadag city - appeals regarding dissatisfaction with court decisions and right to housing have been identified among the most significant issues.

Analysis also showed that although appeals related to dissatisfaction with execution of court decisions, actions of law enforcement officials, criminal cases and criminal offences as well as matter of clemency, constitute a certain part of appeals, their number in the year under review decreased compared with previous year, whereas number of issues raised in remaining appeals increased compared with previous year.

In accordance with Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman, after submission of a complaint by citizens to the Office, Ombudsman issues a decision to accept it for processing, refuse to accept it for processing or clarify to applicant legal remedies available to protect their rights and freedoms. A response related to decision made on acceptance of complaint and its grounds is provided within five days.

After detailed consideration of issues raised in complaints received during the year under review and based on Article 27 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman, requests from Ombudsman were sent to competent state bodies, local self-government bodies and officials for rendering assistance in verifying facts presented in applications. Upon concurrence results of verifications held, responses were sent to citizens.

Furthermore, during the period under review, advisory recommendations were sent to relevant institutions based on Article 30 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman.

In accordance with legislation, certain appeals were forwarded to competent authorities based on issues raised therein. Most of these appeals were forwarded to Supreme Court of Turkmenistan and Muftiyat of Turkmenistan. Following results of considering these appeals, responses were sent to citizens based on replies provided by those authorities.

In addition, in accordance with Item 2 of Part One of Article 18 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman, relevant documents were obtained and reviewed for certain appeals and response letters outlining results were sent to citizens.

Satisfactory responses were received for some of appeals reviewed in above-mentioned manner, which are detailed in Chapter VIII of Report, titled Requests and Recommendations of Ombudsman.

Complaints that did not meet requirements established by Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman were left without consideration; namely, those that did not contain fact of the matter, were unsigned, were submitted in violation of delivery term or concerned matters outside competence of Ombudsman. Complaints that were written repeatedly on same issues that had previously been considered and responded, also had been left without considering.

Tables below provide results of review of appeals received by Office of Ombudsman with breakdown by region. In addition to appeals that are accepted for processing in the year under review, these data also include appeals that were not reviewed in 2024 and remained outstanding at beginning of analyzed year.

As it can be seen from tables above and data, from 475 complaints received by Office of Ombudsman in the year under review, 28 complaints representing 5.9% were submitted by citizens repeatedly before receiving a response to their initial appeal on the same matter and these were considered by consolidated with 15 previously submitted appeals.

For more than a third of written appeals that are registered in the year under review, namely, 164 appeals or 34.5% - letters of an advisory nature were sent to citizens, clarifying legal remedies available for protection of their rights and freedoms.

In addition, 105 appeals or 22.1% of total number of appeals accepted for processing within period under review, were left without consideration in accordance with provisions of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman for following reasons: absence of wording and signature, submitted with violation of delivery term, submission of application on a previously considered matter, submission of a request for joint consideration of an appeal after receiving a response to a written application or written applications and complaints on matters outside competence of Ombudsman.

In addition, within period under review, 19 appeals were carried over as pending from 2024, from them 10 appeals were forwarded to competent authorities with requests for assistance in holding verifications in accordance with Article 27 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman; advisory recommendations were sent to competent authorities for 6 appeals in accordance with Article 30 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman and 3 appeals were reviewed by examining documents obtained from relevant institutions in accordance with Item 2 of Part One of Article 18 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman. All of these appeals were reviewed within the year under review and one appeal was satisfied.

In addition, 37.5% of total number of appeals registered in the year under review, namely, 143 out of 178 appeals were forwarded to competent authorities with requests for assistance in verification of facts presented in them based on Article 27 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman while 20 appeals were forwarded to the appropriate authorities according to their competence.

Meanwhile, based on Item 2 of Part One of Article 18 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman, 8 appeals were reviewed by obtaining relevant documents from the authorities and 1 appeal was reviewed by examining documents attached to application. In accordance with Article 30 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman, 7 advisory recommendations were sent to competent authorities regarding 6 appeals.

Thus, in 2025 28 appeals attached to previously submitted written complaints/appeals were forwarded to the appropriate authorities according to their competence in accordance with Article 27 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman with requests for assistance in verifying facts presented in appeals; in accordance with Item 2 of Part One of Article 18 of Law appeals were reviewed by obtaining relevant documents from the place and examining documents submitted together with appeal; in accordance with Article 30 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman advisory recommendations were sent to competent authorities regarding 178 out of 206 appeals. From them, 28 appeals (or 15.7%) were satisfied and 10 remained pending at the end of the year. Satisfied appeals detailed in Chapter VIII, titled Requests and Recommendations of Ombudsman.

In this section of Report, in accordance with above-mentioned and provided indicators, analysis is presented by regions for appeals registered in 2025, 28 of which were reviewed by consolidating with previously submitted appeals.

For Ashgabat, 2 appeals were reviewed by obtaining documents from relevant authorities, 33 appeals or 73.3% were forwarded to competent authorities based on Article 27 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman, 2 appeals were forwarded to competent authorities with advisory recommendations in accordance with Article 30 of specified Law and 8 appeals were forwarded to the appropriate authority by affiliation. In total, from 45 reviewed appeals, 4 appeals or 8.9% were satisfied and 3 remained pending at the end of the year and 5 were reviewed by consolidating with previously submitted written applications - appeals.

For Balkan velayat, 3 appeals were reviewed by obtaining documents from relevant authorities, 21 appeals or 67.7% were forwarded to competent authorities based on Article 27 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman, 1 appeal was forwarded to authorized bodies with advisory recommendation based on Article 30 of specified Law and 6 appeals were forwarded to the appropriate authority by affiliation. In total, from 31 reviewed appeals, 2 appeals or 6.5% were satisfied and 1 was reviewed by consolidating with previously submitted written application-appeals.

For Dashoguz velayat, 2 appeals were reviewed by obtaining documents from relevant authorities, 43 appeals or 89.6%, were forwarded to competent authorities based on Article 27 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman, 1 appeal was forwarded to competent authorities with advisory recommendation based on Article 30 of specified Law and 2 appeals were forwarded to the appropriate authority by affiliation. In total, from 48 reviewed appeals 11 appeals or 22.9% were satisfied, 5 remained pending at the end of the year and 5 were reviewed by consolidating with previously submitted written applications - appeals.

For Lebap velayat, 14 appeals or 82.4% were forwarded to competent authorities based on Article 27 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman, 2 appeals were forwarded to competent authorities with advisory recommendation based on Article 30 of specified Law and 1 appeal was forwarded to the appropriate authority by affiliation. In total, from 17 reviewed appeals 4 appeals or 23.5% were satisfied, 2 remained pending at the end of the year and 2 were reviewed by consolidating with previously submitted written applications - appeals.

For Mary velayat, 1 appeal was reviewed by obtaining documents from relevant authorities, 21 appeals or 87.5%, were forwarded to competent authorities based on Article 27 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman and 2 appeals were forwarded to the appropriate authority. In total, from 24 reviewed appeals, 3 appeals or 12.5% were satisfied and 15 were reviewed by consolidating with previously submitted written applications - appeals.

For Ahal velayat, 1 appeal was reviewed by obtaining documents from relevant authorities, 11 appeals or 84.6% were forwarded to competent authorities based on Article 27 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman and 1 appeal was forwarded to the appropriate authority. In total, from 13 reviewed appeals, 4 appeals or 30.8% were satisfied and 15 were reviewed by consolidating with previously submitted written applications - appeals.

As it was mentioned above, appeals of citizens are considered when Ombudsman decides to accept them for processing, namely, by forwarding requests to competent authorities for assistance in verifying facts presented in applications by sending advisory recommendations to competent authorities or by forwarding appeals to the appropriate authority.

Along with this, analysis was conducted based on results of consideration of appeals by institutions to which recommendations on appeals were sent as well as appeals forwarded for verification to the appropriate authority with requests for documents.

In accordance with above analysis, 142 written appeals accepted for processing out of total number received by Office of Ombudsman were forwarded by Ombudsman to competent authorities with specified review deadlines based on Article 27 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman and additional 6 appeals were forwarded based on Article 30 of the said Law. In addition, 20 appeals accepted for processing were forwarded for consideration to the appropriate authority and 8 were reviewed by obtaining relevant documents from competent authorities, in general, from 176 appeals, 9 remained pending at the end of the year.

Thus, from 176 appeals that were forwarded for consideration to the appropriate authority, reviewed by obtaining relevant documents from competent authorities or sent to competent authorities with a request for assistance in consideration and a proposal, responses to 57 appeals or 32.39% were received with a delay of the established deadline.

As it is seen from results of review of appeals with delayed responses, from 29 appeals forwarded to Office of Prosecutor General of Turkmenistan, 5 were responded in violation of deadline. Reminder letter was sent for 1 of these appeals, 5 were satisfied and 2 remained pending at the end of the year. From 18 appeals forwarded to Ministry of Defense, 4 were responded with violation of deadline. Reminder letter was sent for 1 of these appeals, 3 were satisfied and 1 remained pending at the end of the year. From 17 appeals forwarded to Supreme Court of Turkmenistan, 2 were responded in violation of deadline and 2 were satisfied. From 5 appeals forwarded to Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of Population of Turkmenistan, 1 was responded in violation of deadline. From 8 appeals forwarded to Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan, 3 were responded in violation of deadline, 1 was satisfied and 2 remained pending at the end of the year. For 1 appeal forwarded to Ministry of Energy of Turkmenistan, delayed response was received after Reminder letter was sent. For 1 appeal forwarded to Ministry of Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan, delayed response was received. From 2 appeals forwarded to State Concern Turkmennebit, delayed response was received for 1. For 3 appeals forwarded to State Service of Maritime and River Transport of Turkmenistan, delayed responses were received. For 2 appeals forwarded to Muftiate of Turkmenistan, delayed responses were received and 1 was satisfied. From 17 appeals forwarded to Hyakimlik of Ashgabat, delayed responses were received for 9, Reminder letter was sent for 1, 2 were satisfied and 1 remained pending at the end of the year. From 4 appeals forwarded to Hyakimlik of Balkan velayat, delayed responses were received for 3 and Reminder letters were sent for 2. From 16 appeals forwarded to Hyakimlik of Dashoguz velayat, delayed responses were received for 9, Reminder letters were sent for 2, 2 were satisfied and 1 remained pending at the end of the year. From 9 appeals forwarded to Hyakimlik of Lebap velayat, delayed responses were received for 6 and 2 were satisfied. From 8 appeals forwarded to Hyakimlik of Mary velayat, delayed responses were received for 5, Reminder letter was sent for 1 and 2 were satisfied. From 3 appeals forwarded to Hyakimlik of Ahal velayat, delayed responses were received for 2, Reminder letter was sent for 1 and 2 were satisfied.

Analysis of appeals with delayed responses revealed that irresponsible approach to processing appeals by Heads of local executive authorities, ministries and line agencies has led to repeated appeals by citizens to Office of Ombudsman. Reminder letters were sent to respective Heads in order to draw their attention to complaints that had been responded in violation of deadlines established by law.

In addition, analysis of above-mentioned indicators revealed that delays in responding to number of appeals were justified given that appeals forwarded to Office of Prosecutor General of Turkmenistan, Ministry of Internal Affairs of Turkmenistan and Supreme Court of Turkmenistan required additional verifications to clarify matters raised in appeals.

As it is seen from above-mentioned, deadlines for certain appeals were breached due to necessity of conducting additional verification.

Based on practice, on 30 November 2024, amendment was made to Article 27 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman regarding timeframe for consideration of appeals by Office of Ombudsman. This amendment introduced a provision stating that in cases where additional verification is required on matter specified in a complaint, timeframe for consideration of complaint determined by Ombudsman may be extended by official for a period of no more than one month. Moreover, within three days from date of extension of timeframe for consideration of complaint, official shall notify Ombudsman thereof in writing. Introduction of this provision established legal framework for setting required timeframes for more thorough consideration of appeals. However, this statutory provision was not applied by competent authorities and officials in the year under review.

Within the year under review, Office of Ombudsman registered 201 verbal appeals from citizens. Appeals were analyzed by regions of the country and presented in tables below.

As it is seen from analysis, majority of verbal appeals, particularly 106 or 52.74% originated from Ashgabat. One of reasons for such high number is that Office of Ombudsman is located in Ashgabat, namely its central location that makes it easily accessible to citizens.

This section of Report provides analysis of verbal appeals for the year in breakdown by quarter and number of citizens who applied.

As it is seen from analysis, within period under review, number of applicants for 201 accepted verbal appeals amounted to 244 citizens and number of applicants for 38 collective appeals was 81 citizens.

These indicators demonstrate that compared with 2024, total number of applicants increased by 60 individuals in the year under review, while number of collective appeals increased by 19 and number of applicants for them increased by 27.

In addition, analysis of applicants by gender and ethnicity was conducted. Particularly, from total number of applicants, 146 were women and 98 were men. They represent various ethnicities, including 199 Turkmen, 12 Russians, 8 Azerbaijanians, 2 Armenians, 8 Uzbeks, 1 Lezgin, 6 Tatars, 3 Ukrainians, 1 Georgian, 2 Kurds, 1 Mari and 1 Afghan. In total, share of representatives of other ethnicities accounted for 18.44% of total number of appeals.

All applied citizens regardless of nationality or other characteristics are provided with equal opportunities to exercise their rights. In particular, citizens submitting verbal applications are interviewed in a language in which they are fluent and are provided with relevant recommendations and clarifications. Within the year under review, no cases of misunderstanding regarding content of written or verbal responses provided by Office of Ombudsman were recorded.

Analysis was conducted on verbal appeals registered within the year with breakdown by raised issues as well as by regions. Results are presented in tables below.

As it can be seen from above stated data, majority of verbal appeals from citizens, namely 45 are related to housing issues, accounting for 22.39% of total number of appeals, 41-concern dissatisfaction with judicial decisions representing 20.40% of the total; 4 appeals related to dissatisfaction with the execution of judicial decisions, making up 1.99% of the total; 13 appeals were on migration issues, accounting for 6.47% of the total; 9 appeals with regards to labor law, representing 4.48% of the total; 5 appeals concern land law issues, making up 2.49% of the total; 1 appeal was related to guardianship and trusteeship, accounting for 0.50% of the total; 17 appeals with regards to dissatisfaction with the actions of law enforcement officers, representing 8.46% of the total; 3 appeals were about criminal cases and criminal acts, making up 1.49% of the total; 5 appeals were on matters of clemency, accounting for 2.49% of the total; 7 appeals were related to residency registration, representing 3.48% of the total; and 1 appeal with regards to gas, electricity and water supply, making up 0.50% of the total number of appeals.

The remaining 24.86% or 50 oral appeals, concerned other matters. These were mainly related to citizens’ dissatisfaction with the actions of heads of institutions or officials, debts, family disputes or conflicts with neighbors, assistance in obtaining necessary documents from institutions and organizations as well as other issues arising in everyday life.

Identified key issues analysis in regions based on verbal appeals from citizens revealed as follows: in Ashgabat, mainly relate to housing and labour rights, residency registration, dissatisfaction with judicial decisions and actions of law enforcement officials and other matters; in Arkadag, issues are related to housing rights; in Balkan velayat, they concern dissatisfaction with judicial decisions and other matters; in Lebap velayat, they pertain to dissatisfaction with judicial decisions and migration issues; in Dashoguz velayat, issues are related to housing rights and other matters and in Mary velayat, they concern dissatisfaction with judicial decisions and other matters.

As per analysis data indicators, number of certain types of verbal appeals increased compared with previous year, particularly, while in 2024 there were 4 recorded appeals (2.56%) with regards to education, 4 appeals (2.56%) with regards to right to healthcare and 1 appeal (0.64%) on social welfare matters, no verbal appeals concerning these issues were registered in the year under review.

This section of the Report analyzes written and verbal complaints from citizens, issues raised in collective appeals with breakdown by regions are highlighted.

Particularly, during the period under review, 49 written collective appeals were registered representing a total of 567 citizens. Most part of them were received from Ashgabat as well as Lebap and Mary velayats. With regards to Ashgabat, 12 appeals were submitted by 60 applicants with breakdown as follows: 1 – related to housing rights, 1- related to land law, 3- expressed dissatisfaction with judicial decisions, 1-related to dissatisfaction with actions of law enforcement officials, 2-regarding residency registration, 1- on social welfare matters, 1-related to migration issues, 2-related to other matters.

232 citizens from Lebap velayat submitted 10 appeals including 1-related to dissatisfaction with judicial decision, 1-related to dissatisfaction with actions of law enforcement officials, 1-related to labor law, 1-to land law, 1- related to clemency and 5-on other matters. 98 citizens from Mary velayat submitted 10 appeals, 7 of which were related to land law, 1- related to social welfare and 2-related to other matters. 53 citizens from Dashoguz velayat submitted 6 appeals, 1-related to housing rights, 1- related to land law, 1-related to criminal case and criminal offences, 1-on social welfare and 2 on other matters. 28 citizens from Balkan velayat submitted 3 appeals including 1-on housing rights, 1-on right to work and 1-expressing dissatisfaction with actions of law enforcement officials. 37 citizens from Ahal velayat submitted 4 appeals, 1 from which related to right to work, 1-on social welfare and 2-related to dissatisfaction with judicial decisions; from Arkadag, 59 citizens submitted 4 appeals regarding judicial decisions on housing issues.

Some of collective appeals submitted by citizens were satisfied, details of them can be found in Chapter VIII of this Report with title Requests and Recommendations of Ombudsman.

Besides, during the period under review, 38 verbal collective appeals were registered that involved 81 applicants in total. 28 citizens from Ashgabat submitted 14 appeals as follows: 4-related to judicial decisions, 1- criminal case and criminal offenses, 1-dissatisfaction with actions of law enforcement officials, 3-on housing rights, 2-on residency registration, 1-on migration issues and 2 on other matters. 4 citizens from Balkan velayat submitted 2 appeals: 1- expressing dissatisfaction with actions of law enforcement officials and 1-on other matters. 16 citizens from Dashoguz velayat submitted 6 appeals: 2-on housing rights, 1-on migration issues and 3-on other matters. 6 citizens from Lebap velayat submitted 3 appeals including 1-on dissatisfaction with a judicial decision and 2-on other matters. 11 citizens from Mary velayat submitted 5 appeals, 1-on dissatisfaction with a judicial decision, 3-on housing rights and 1-on other matters. 12 citizens from Ahal velayat submitted 6 appeals, 1-on dissatisfaction with actions of law enforcement officials, 1-on dissatisfaction with enforcement of a judicial decision, 2-on land law, 1-on gas, electricity and water supply issues and 1 was on migration matters; 4 citizens from Arkadag submitted 2 appeals with regards to housing rights.

In addition, as per annual Action plan of the Office of Ombudsman, Ombudsman and representatives of the Office participated in public receptions held by Hyakimliks of velayats within the year under review and received total of 100 citizens on different matters.

Despite the fact that Chapter 1 of this Report that addresses observance and implementation of human and civil rights and freedoms in our country, it presents findings as per analysis of issues taking place in regions of Turkmenistan, this section of this Report covers following specific issues: residents of Dashoguz velayat participated in housing construction through equity-sharing agreements and made advance payments, however housing was not completed within timeframes specified in Agreements between Parties, resulting in construction deficiencies; interruptions in gas and electricity supply persist in Dashoguz, Mary and Lebap velayats and issues were also addressed with regards to failure in roads building in Dashoguz, Mary and Balkan velayats.

With the purpose to ensure compliance with legislation in work of Ombudsman on reviewing appeals from citizens, to assist in reducing number of incoming and repeated appeals, to prevent violations of human rights and freedoms in the country, to restore violated rights and to prevent and eliminate circumstances that lead to rights violations, we propose as follows:

 - State authorities, local self-government bodies and their officials, enterprises, institutions and organizations regardless of their form of ownership as well as other persons shall approach requests or recommendations of Ombudsman for assistance in complaints’ investigations with due responsibility and shall provide responses within timeframes established by law and addressing substance of their core content;

- Local executive authorities shall exercise special control over registration and keeping housing waiting list for citizens including persons in need of improved housing conditions as well as over ensuring that persons placed on the waiting list are fully informed; 

- Due to increasing number of complaints from velayats of the country particularly from Mary and Dashoguz velayats, which primarily raise issues regarding land rights, gas, electricity and water supply as well as road construction, local executive authorities shall strengthen control in this area; 

- Local executive authorities shall strengthen control over private companies acting as contractors in shared-equity residential construction, following payment of respective fees by citizens in accordance with their contracts; particularly, they shall monitor progress and completion of construction within timeframes specified in contract and ensure that quality of construction and renovation work complies with established standards.

Chapter V. Activities of the Ombudsman to Assist in the Improvement of National Legislation

In 2025, which is announced as International Year of Peace and Trust along with political, economic and social transformations aimed at modernizing all spheres of public life, improving well-being of population and strengthening prestige of our country on international stage, extensive work was carried out to improve the nation’s legislation in line with modern realities.

Improvement of national legislation stands among main vectors of domestic and foreign policy of Turkmenistan. Purposeful efforts to develop national legislation that are determined by Head of State as a primary objective, facilitate implementation of new, effective measures aimed at modernizing political system of the country, further strengthening national economy, ensuring social well-being of people and safeguarding human rights and freedoms - the highest value of Turkmen society. In this context, modernization of legislation covering various aspects of public life including protection of social, economic, civil and political rights, serves as confirmation of profound respect shown to individual in our country.

Legislation of the country serving as foundation for protection of human rights ensures implementation of constitutional norms and international obligations while guaranteeing protection of civil, political, economic, social and cultural human rights as well as restoration of violated rights. This is evidenced by fact that separate chapter of Constitution of Turkmenistan, which forms basis of our legal system, recognizes fundamental norms related to human rights and freedoms. Constitution establishes such pivotal principles as inalienability of citizens’ rights, equality of all before law, direct applicability of rights and obligation to protect them while also providing a mechanism for defense of human rights. Constitution recognizes a person as the highest value of society and state by declaring that protection, support and serving a person are primary duties of state authorities. Thus, above-mentioned norms serve as baseline for ensuring compliance with human rights within existing legislation of Turkmenistan.

In addition, Turkmenistan being an equal member of global community, actively participates in universal international agreements on human rights and freedoms and carries out comprehensive work to implement international standards enshrined therein into its national legislation.

At the same time, it shall be noted that during the year under review, a number of normative legal acts were developed and adopted taking into account modern requirements and international standards in this area.

As is well known, authorities of Ombudsman in the sphere of legislative improvement are established on a statutory basis. One of primary functions of Authorized Representative for Human Rights in Turkmenistan is to facilitate improvement of legislation of the country in the sphere of human and civil rights and freedoms with the aim of bringing it into conformity with Constitution of Turkmenistan, international treaties and universally recognized principles and norms of international law.

Furthermore, in order to facilitate improvement of Turkmenistan legislation in sphere of human rights in accordance with Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman, the Ombudsman is entitled to review legislative plans of Parliament (Mejlis) of Turkmenistan and draft laws submitted for considering by Mejlis of Turkmenistan, to submit proposals for improvement of Turkmenistan legislation to entities that have a right of legislative initiative and to participate in working groups tasked with preparing draft laws concerning human and civil rights and freedoms.

In this context, it is necessary to highlight specific results of work carried out by Ombudsman during the year under review within framework of their powers in the sphere of legislative improvement. In particular, participation of Ombudsman in working groups established within Mejlis to draft laws in accordance with the 2025 legislative plan of Mejlis of Turkmenistan was directed toward protection of human rights. During the year under consideration, 4 sessions of country’s Parliament were held, during which 1 Constitutional Law of Turkmenistan, 1 Code of Turkmenistan, 27 Laws of Turkmenistan and 23 resolutions of Mejlis of Turkmenistan were adopted. Among legislative acts adoptedspecial we shall mention Constitutional Law of Turkmenistan On Legal Foundations of Policy of Peace and Trust of Neutral Turkmenistan and Laws of Turkmenistan On Approval and Enactment of Civil Code of Turkmenistan, On Courts, On the Unified State Register of Voters, On Establishment of Jubilee Medal of Turkmenistan “To the 30^th Anniversary of Neutrality of Turkmenistan” (“Türkmenistanyň Bitaraplygynyň 30 ýyllygyna”), On State Budget of Turkmenistan for 2026, On Virtual Assets and On Scientific Intellectual Property.

At the same time, in order to improve national legal system in accordance with demands of new historical era and universally recognized norms of international law, amendments and additions were made to a number of current legislative acts related to criminal, arbitration, civil and criminal procedural, criminal-executive, family and labour relations as well as taxation, administrative proceedings, road transport, communications, migration, internal affairs authorities, customs issues and state pension insurance.

Above-stated legislative reforms implemented during the year under review are aimed to facilitate further strengthening of foundations of democracy and civil society, consolidation of constitutional form of government, modernization of state authorities’ activity, introduction of modern digital system into electoral system and other positive innovations in life of society, state and citizens.

Constitutional Law of Turkmenistan On Legal fundamentals of Policy of Peace and Trust of Neutral Turkmenistan adopted in 2025 in honor of the 30th anniversary of our country’s permanent neutrality and proclamation of that year as International Year of Peace and Trust has once again defined issues of international relations and diplomacy as well as role of Turkmenistan in the global community.

Laws of Turkmenistan On Courts and On the Unified State Register of Voters adopted during the year under review are important legal acts that are aimed at strengthening and protection fundamental rights and freedoms of man and citizen; in addition, they define natural rights through legal norms and ensure their observance. Representatives of the Office of Ombudsman participated in activities of working groups established within Mejlis of Turkmenistan to prepare these legislative acts and they expressed their views.

Along with this, last year representatives of the Office actively participated in drafting of Civil Code of Turkmenistan through legal analysis of draft law and submitting relevant proposals. This legal act was adopted by Mejlis of Turkmenistan based on need to improve legislation in sphere of civil law relations, integrate norms of international private law into national legislation and regulate property and contractual relations in accordance with modern requirements. Representatives of the Office of Ombudsman not only participated in meetings of working groups for drafting legislation and submitted their proposals but also analyzed draft laws developed by Mejlis of Turkmenistan and forwarded to the Office by providing justified recommendations on them.

Issues regarding implementation of right to freedom of economic activity, enshrined in Constitution of Turkmenistan and international treaties of Turkmenistan are also defined in Civil Code of Turkmenistan. A crucial role in implementation of human rights is played by norms of civil law, which secure human rights to property and entrepreneurial activity and regulate citizen’s legal status, personal life, personal non-property rights, inheritance relations and compensation for damage caused to their life and health. Along with above-mentioned, Civil Code of Turkmenistan also strengthens norms that ensure judicial protection of rights. In connection with the above, it should be noted that in 2024, Department for protection of human rights in private sector was established within structure of the Office of Ombudsman; with its functioning, facilitating exercise of citizens’ economic rights and their restoration in the event of violation is a specific area of Ombudsman’s work that complements existing state remedies for protection of rights and freedoms of man and citizen.

Another important law adopted last year is new edition of Law of Turkmenistan On Courts. For the first time, Law provides for position of family law judges. As it is defined in the said Law, position of family law judge shall be introduced in etrap courts and courts of cities with status of etrap, with the purpose of increasing efficiency of justice in ensuring state protection of family, motherhood, fatherhood and childhood, achieving high professionalism in administration of justice and legal proceedings in family matters as well as strengthening guarantees of family unity. When it comes to significance of adopting this law in its new edition, it shall be noted that in 2024, Department for Protection of Rights of Women and Children was established within structure of the Office of Ombudsman activities of which are intended to facilitate implementation of norms on preserving family unity provided for by above-mentioned law.

As part of efforts of Ombudsman to promote improvement of national legislation, office of Ombudsman not only reviews draft laws prepared by Mejlis of the country but also assists in development of draft normative legal acts prepared by interdepartmental commissions. An example of this is the assistance provided last year in drafting normative legal acts within framework of activities of Interdepartmental Commission on Combating Trafficking in Persons in Turkmenistan including draft of National Action Plan on Combating Trafficking in Persons in Turkmenistan for 2025-2029.

Based on above-mentioned and taking into account continuing need for recommendations made last year with a view to improving national human rights legislation including with reference to ensuring conformity of normative legal acts with current legislation, we propose as follows:

– Local executive authorities, local self-government bodies, ministries and agencies shall review legal acts they have adopted in sphere of human rights and bring them into conformity with current legislation.

– Local executive authorities, local self-government bodies, ministries, and agencies shall develop normative legal acts establishing legal basis for organization of their activities and ensure the state registration of such acts in accordance with established procedure.

– In order to bring work with minors into line with contemporary requirements, local executive authorities in cooperation with competent authorities shall prepare and submit for approval constituent documents of departments for juvenile affairs, guardianship and trusteeship as well as legal acts related to exercise of guardianship and trusteeship in accordance with established procedure.

Chapter VI. Participation of the Ombudsman in Public Events. Assisting in Raising Human Rights Awareness

The year of 2025 that was held under slogan International Year of Peace and Trust has historically become as one of the most successful for our state. This year was full of socio-political and cultural events as well as regional and international forums dedicated to various aspects of human rights. First and foremost, one of the most significant events for our country in 2025 was that the 80^th anniversary of founding of the United Nations coincided with landmark 30^th anniversary of permanent neutrality of Turkmenistan. Over the past 30 years, our permanently neutral state has accumulated rich experience in this sphere and become a center of harmony and friendship. The United Nations has recognized legal status of permanent neutrality three times and this is a clear testament to full and strict compliance by our country with human rights that stands as one of primary conditions for legal status of neutrality.

In accordance with provisions of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman, one of core functions of Ombudsman is legal informing citizens with regards to human and civil rights and freedoms in the country, forms and methods of their protection as well as raising public awareness in this sphere. Last year, in 2025 task of raising public awareness of human rights in the country was carried out by Ombudsman and representatives of the Office through appearances in media and at public events. Namely, this was achieved through publishing articles in newspapers and magazines, participating in television broadcasts and organizing training sessions on state guarantees of human rights and freedoms, compliance with human rights and improvement of legislative framework in this area. In addition, Ombudsman’s Office website regularly publishes information on human rights standards guaranteed by legislation of Turkmenistan, work of state to ensure human rights in the country and various aspects of human rights and freedoms.

In accordance with approved work plan of the Office of Ombudsman for 2025, throughout the year Office of Ombudsman in cooperation with national and international partners consistently carried out activities aimed at raising public awareness of human rights.

As in previous years, throughout the year under review, Ombudsman actively participated in political and public events of the country. Speaking of Ombudsman’s participation in social and cultural events, first and foremost, we shall note participation of Ombudsman alongside representatives of all layers and generations of society in regular meeting of Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan that was held on 19 September 2025.

As is well known, in accordance with Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman, annual Report is submitted by Ombudsman on activities of the Office and situation with human rights in the country to the President of Turkmenistan for consideration as well as this Report is delivered before the Mejlis of Turkmenistan. In this regard, in accordance with Agenda of the eighth session of the seventh convocation of Mejlis of Turkmenistan that was held on 12 April 2025, Ombudsman delivered Report on work completed in 2024 and situation with human rights in the country.

In accordance with provisions of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman, annual Report of Ombudsman is covered in mass media and brought to public attention. Thus, Report was posted on website of the Office of Ombudsman (ombudsman.gov.tm) and in April 2025 representative of the Office of Ombudsman made a speech participated in Society and Law program broadcasted on Altyn Asyr television channel and thereby bringing information contained in Report to general public attention.

Being a member of Interdepartmental Commission on Ensuring Compliance with International Obligations of Turkmenistan in sphere of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law, last year during one of meetings of Commission, Ombudsman reported on accreditation of the Office of Ombudsman by Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions, its achievement of status “B” as well as recommendations of Alliance on ensuring full compliance with Paris Principles.

Moreover, Ombudsman participated in three meetings of Commission in 2025 as a member of Interdepartmental Commission expressing their opinion on the agenda item related to fighting against human trafficking in the country. Furthermore, representatives of the Office of Ombudsman participated as members in meetings of working groups established under above-mentioned Interdepartmental Commissions, which serve as an effective platform for discussion of issues with regards to different aspects of human rights.

Throughout the year under review, Ombudsman and personnel of the Office of Ombudsman actively participated in seminars and educational events on various aspects of human rights by delivering reports on relevant topics. Among them: scientific and practical conference Protection of Human and Civil Rights in Central Asian Countries that was held at the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan in March 2025; scientific and practical conference Path of Sustainable Development is a Guarantee of Peace and Prosperity that was held at State Committee of Turkmenistan on Statistics and training sessions for schoolchildren organized in schools in May on the occasion of International Children’s Day.

Further activities include: conference dedicated to implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security; workshop held in June under the slogan On Development of Alternative Family-Based Care Forms and training sessions arranged in July in camps and health centers for children in Gokdere, Ashgabat as well as at Bagtiyar Nesil camps and health centers for children in Dashoguz velayat and Arkadagyn bagtiyar nesilleri in Mary velayat; also: seminar for personnel of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Turkmenistan dedicated to World Day Against Trafficking in Persons; meeting of working group on implementation of Sustainable Development Goals in the country that was held in October and conference Role of Neutrality of Turkmenistan in Strengthening Peace and Stability in Central Asia and World, which was held in December at Academy of Civil Service of Turkmenistan under the President of Turkmenistan.

It shall also be noted that Ombudsman participated in the meeting of women leaders that was titled From Commitment to Change: Women as Drivers of Avaza Action Programme for Landlocked Developing Countries that was held within framework of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, which took place in our country from 4 to 8 August 2025. Moreover, Ombudsman took part in International conference Role of Women in Modern Society: Developing International Cooperation towards Achieving Sustainable Development Goals that was held on 10 December of same year.

As it is well known, website of the Office of Ombudsman (ombudsman.gov.tm) is operating since 16 April 2021. As it was highlighted above, within the year under review, website published coverage of activities related to compliance with human rights that is one of priority areas of internal and foreign policy of state as well as activities of Ombudsman carried out in accordance with Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman. Information related to activities on human rights protection of the Office of Ombudsman of Turkmenistan, international and national legal norms regulating human rights as well as international and domestic events and seminars in this sphere organized with participation of personnel of the Office of Ombudsman along with published articles was systematically posted and updated on the said website.

In addition, articles were published in print media of the country including newspapers and magazines revealing multifaceted activities, nature of reforms and democratic transformations. For example, Bagtiyarlygyn berk binyady Article was published in 31^st January edition of Adalat newspaper in the year under review; Dialogue and Cooperation for the Sake of Future Article in the 1^st February edition of Neutral Turkmenistan newspaper and Article Neutral Turkmenistan: A Course towards Cooperation and Development published in the 15^th April edition of the same newspaper. The content of these articles highlighted adoption of Concept that reflects priority areas and activities to be implemented during International Year of Peace and Trust. They also covered creation of conditions to ensure rights of refugees and stateless persons, support of motherhood and childhood, comprehensive development of youth and utilization of their potential in science, inventive activities and sports while demonstrating close interconnection of all these efforts with activities carried out by departments of the Office of Ombudsman.

During a program broadcasted on Aşgabat television channel on 15 September 2025 dedicated to results of Halk Maslahaty meeting held in anticipation of the 34th anniversary of Independence of Turkmenistan, a representative of the Office of Ombudsman delivered a speech on topic as follows: Türkmenistanyň Halk Maslahaty - döwlet häkimiýetiniň gözbaşydyr (Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan is Source of State Power). Moreover, Article with the name: Agzybirligiň we jebisligiň gözbaşy (Source of Unity and Solidarity) was published in Adalat newspaper on 3 October. This Article highlights meeting of Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, which is a nationwide forum held annually in keeping with tradition of nationwide discussion on matters of national significance such as equality, justice and priority of human rights, all of which are envisaged in ancient national traditions and modern legislation. Participation of elders, youth and representatives from all layers of society in this forum stands as a testament to the respect shown toward rights of each citizen individual in our country.

Day of Constitution and State Flag of Turkmenistan are holidays that emphasize unity and solidarity of people as well as unwavering commitment of our country to the noble principles of peace, humanism and human rights. In connection with this momentous date, Article Adam hukuklarynyň mizemez kepili (Inviolable Guarantee of Human Rights) by Authorized Representative for Human Rights in Turkmenistan - Ombudsman was published in May edition of Turkmenistan newspaper during the year under review.

In addition, during scientific and practical conference Constitution of Turkmenistan is a Legal Guarantee of Permanent Neutrality of Our Country, State Flag is Symbol of International Peace held in May on occasion of Day of Constitution and State Flag of Turkmenistan, Ombudsman delivered a report. This report noted that Basic Law of the country embodies norms of sovereignty, statehood and unity that constitute universal human values, serves as a solid legal foundation for implementing priority areas of state policy and forms reliable legislative basis for ensuring political, economic, social and cultural rights of citizens.

Along with this, articles written by personnel of the Office of Ombudsman were published in May last year in Adalat newspaper with title: Döwletliligiň we berkakarlygyň binýady (Foundation of statehood and stability) and Article with title: Symbols of Independence and Guarantees of Human Rights in Neutral Turkmenistan newspaper. These articles emphasize that Turkmenistan being a democratic state governed by rule of law, adopts legislative acts and amends existing laws in line with modern realities in order to ensure human rights including equal rights and freedoms for men and women and constitutional norms that guarantee equal opportunities for their implementation. They also address opportunities and conditions created to ensure human rights including gender equality.

In view of this, on 7 March 2025, Türkmenistan newspaper published Article prepared by personnel of Department for Protection of Women’s and Children’s Rights of the Office of Ombudsman: Belent hormatyň eýeleri (Those Worthy of High Esteem) dedicated to International Women’s Day widely celebrated annually around the world. This Article covers conferral of honorary title: Ene mähri (Maternal Affection) for mothers given birth to and raised eight or more children in accordance with Decree of President of Turkmenistan, state benefits provided to them and their legal foundations as well as provisions of Law of Turkmenistan On State Guarantees for Ensuring Equal Rights and Equal Opportunities for Women and Men. In addition, it considers review of appeals related to rights of women and children received by Office of the Office, cooperation with partner organizations on gender equality issues, participation in international or national events and conferences aimed at professional capacity building and execution of awareness-raising and educational activities. Along with this, it highlights that state focuses on creating necessary conditions in the country for the happy life and work of women as well as for educating the younger generation and bringing them up in the spirit of patriotism.

It shall be also be highlighted that in June, Watan newspaper published Article: Ylymly ýaşlary goldamagyň hukuk esaslary (Legal Basis for Supporting Youth in Science) dedicated to Science and Student Youth Day. This Article discusses standards for ensuring rights and freedoms of young people as established in Law of Turkmenistan On State Youth Policy and notes that State Program on State Youth Policy of Turkmenistan for 2021-2025 is aimed at providing comprehensive support to youth. This demonstrates that upbringing of young people begins in childhood, first and foremost within their family.

In our country, children are surrounded by special care and support and all necessary conditions are created for their comprehensive, healthy and harmonious development. As part of events dedicated to widely celebrated International Children’s Day, program was organized on 1 June 2025, for viewers of Turkmenistan TV channel, featuring the Ombudsman and Representative of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Turkmenistan, Ms. Jalpa Ratna. The said program focused on implementation of provisions of the UN Convention on Rights of Child adopted by our country, state policy related to protection of rights, freedoms and legitimate interests of children as well as activities of the Office of Ombudsman and the UN Children’s Fund in Turkmenistan to protect children’s rights in our country.

In addition, personnel of the Office of Ombudsman published Articles: Döwletiň howandarlygynda (Under protection of State) in Adalat newspaper on 6 June 2025 and Sahawatyň şuglasy (Ray of Generosity) on 21 November 2025. These Articles highlight progress of implementation of National Action Plan for Realization of Children’s Rights in Turkmenistan for 2023-2028 approved by Decree of President of Turkmenistan on 21 June 2023 as well as work carried out systematically in the country to protect rights of children.

Protection of human rights in the country, ensuring restoration of violated rights and raising public awareness about them are core pillars of Ombudsman’ activities. By active participation in events that mark annually celebrated anniversary of adoption of the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Ombudsman and personnel of the Office, just as in previous years, delivered reports on ongoing work to ensure human rights. Thus, on the occasion of the 77th anniversary of adoption of Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article: Protection of Constitutional Rights and Freedoms of Citizens was published in Neutral Turkmenistan newspaper on 18 December 2025. Article highlights in detail large-scale work carried out in our country for sake of freedom, independence, peaceful life and well-being of person that is the highest value of society and state. It also describes effective efforts to protect and guarantee rights, freedoms and interests of all people living in our country based on national legislation and widely recognized norms of international law as well as activities of the Office of Ombudsman in this direction.

By joining to international human rights conventions, Turkmenistan demonstrates its commitment to international obligations by implementing their provisions on protection of human rights and freedoms into national legislation and putting them into practice. Approval of National Action Plan of Turkmenistan on Combating Trafficking in Persons for 2025-2029 by Decree of the President of Turkmenistan on 10 January 2025 became an event of special significance that is aimed at developing cooperation between state bodies, public associations and international organizations in combating human trafficking as part of ensuring human rights and freedoms in Turkmenistan. Work carried out within framework of this Plan was highlighted in Article: Döwletiň daýanjy-Halkyň goragy (Support of State - Protection of People) published in Adalat newspaper on 1 August 2025.

Ombudsman and representatives of the Office of Ombudsman took active part in events dedicated to glorious 34th anniversary of Independence of Turkmenistan that is one of the historical milestones for our country in the year under review. It shall be noted that on 18 September during Scientific and practical conference Garaşsyzlyk ýurdumyzyň döwlet syýasatynyň binýatlaýyn esasydyr (Independence is Fundamental Basis of our Country’s State Policy) organized by Supreme Court of Turkmenistan, representative of the Office of Ombudsman delivered a Report: Türkmenistanyň Garaşsyzlygy - Baky bagtyýarlygyň binýady (Independence of Turkmenistan is a Foundation of Eternal Happiness). In addition, Article: Watanymyzyň Garaşsyzlygy - Abadançylygyň we ösüşiň binýady (Independence of Our Motherland is a Foundation of Prosperity and Development) was published in Watan newspaper on 27 September. This Article describes in detail how achievement of independence alongside ensuring country’s sovereign political and economic development, fostered growth of people’s national identity, helped Turkmenistan take a worthy place in development of human civilization and enabled our state as a full participant in international relations, to express its political views.

Among significant events of last year was widely spread celebration of the 30th anniversary of permanent neutrality. Ombudsman and representatives of the Office took part in celebrations and events held on occasion of this glorious date. In particular, on 1 December 2025 during Scientific and practical conference Role of Turkmenistan’s Neutrality in Strengthening Peace and Stability in Central Asia and Worldwide held at Academy of Civil Service under President of Turkmenistan, representative of the Office of Ombudsman delivered Report: Role of Legal Status of Turkmenistan’s Neutrality in Implementation Human Rights.

Along with this, Article by personnel of the Office of Ombudsman: Bitaraplyk – abadançylygyň binýady (Neutrality is Foundation of Prosperity) was published in December 25 edition of Ahal durmuşy newspaper. This Article discusses consolidation of legal status of our country’s permanent neutrality in Constitution of Turkmenistan and Constitutional Law On Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan, provisions of which are reflected in domestic and foreign policy of the country.

In 2025, in year when the 30^th anniversary of permanent neutrality is widely celebrated, representatives of the Office of Ombudsman published Articles in Adalat newspaper on 15 August: Parahatçylygyň we durnukly ösüşiň bähbidine (For Sake of Peace and Sustainable Development) and in Neutral Turkmenistan newspaper on 8 September: Right to Development. These articles highlight the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, which was held in Avaza National Tourist Zone based on open door policy of the state.

At the same time, on the occasion of National Holiday of Turkmen Horse that is celebrated on annual basis in our independent, neutral country on last Sunday of April to honor art of horse breeding improved by our ancestors over millennia, Article: Çyn bedewler meýdanynda bellidir (True Steeds Are Revealed on the Field) was published in Adalat newspaper on 25 April 2025. It emphasizes great attention paid to art of equitation in our country as well as ongoing work to promote fame of Akhal-Teke horses and its legal foundations.

Last year, in 2025, Ombudsman and representatives of the Office published 18 articles in total dedicated to promotion of legal foundations of human rights in various spheres. Several representatives of the Office of Ombudsman became winners of Competition Jan Watanym-Türkmenistan (My Dear Motherland is Turkmenistan) that is announced by Board of Editors of Adalat newspaper and Competition Peace and Trust is a Guarantee of Stability that is announced by Neutral Turkmenistan newspaper.

In the year under review, as a result of participation of Ombudsman in public and cultural events, work conducted to raise legal awareness of citizens, efforts to increase public awareness of transformations implemented in our country to protect human rights and based on analysis of appeals received by Office of Ombudsman it is concluded that a certain part of the violations of legal norms indicated in appeals is due to low awareness of officials about their duties and responsibilities as well as of citizens about their legal rights. Taking into account necessity of carrying out activities in order to raise legal awareness, literacy and legal culture of population including responsible officials, following is proposed as in previous years:

 – to conduct work on introducing a subject or special course on human rights into curricula of secondary and higher education in order to raise public awareness of human rights and develop legal culture;

 - to develop and submit for approval in accordance with established procedure draft of the unified state program providing for concrete measures to be jointly implemented by ministries, departments, local executive authorities, local representative bodies (Halk Maslahaty), mass media and public organizations in order to ensure consistent, coordinated and comprehensive implementation of activities to raise human rights legal awareness and legal culture of population including officials and civil servants of the country.

Chapter VII. International Cooperation

In International Year of Peace and Trust, which is marked by remarkable 30^th Anniversary of permanent neutrality of Motherland, country’s policy of neutrality was further developed and Turkmenistan continued to successfully implement its foreign policy strategy aimed at broad international cooperation based on trust, equality, and mutual benefit principles.

Turkmenistan firmly adhering to legal status of permanent neutrality in foreign policy makes effective and constructive contribution to ensuring international and regional stability and security by diplomatic channels. Thanks to positive experience of Turkmenistan in implementing neutrality policy, international legal status of our country’s permanent neutrality enjoys broad support from international community. Unanimous adoption of Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan Resolution on 21 March 2025 at the 61^st meeting of the 79^th session of the UN General Assembly on initiative of Turkmenistan is a clear confirmation of significance of legal status of our country’s neutrality as effective instrument of mutual respect, strengthening good-neighborly relations and maintaining peace and stability at regional and global levels.

As the State party to fundamental UN conventions in sphere of human rights, Turkmenistan demonstrates its commitment to international obligations, complies with and respects norms of international law recognized by international community in relation to human and civil rights. In accordance with international obligations, our country forms basis of normative legal acts on civil, political, economic, social and cultural human rights while defining important aspects of their implementation and creating conditions for this.

Development of international cooperation in sphere of human rights is one of important activities of Ombudsman. Participating actively in international cooperation at bilateral, regional and global levels, Ombudsman is based on foreign policy of our state, which is aimed at protection of universal human and civil rights and freedoms through humanitarian activities, ratification of international treaties, development of diplomatic relations and use of UN mechanisms.

Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman establishes that Ombudsman promotes development of international cooperation in spshere of human rights, study and implementation of international standards, implementation of international obligations of Turkmenistan to protect human rights and freedoms and strengthen friendship and mutual understanding between peoples. This defines role of Ombudsman in international cooperation.

Thus, in accordance with Principles related to Status of National institutions for the promotion and Protection of Human Rights (Paris Principles) approved by Resolution 48/134 of the UN General Assembly dated 20 December 1993, Ombudsman as a national human rights institution, maintains relations with international organizations and national human rights bodies of foreign states, following these principles.

Bilateral and multilateral international cooperation of Ombudsman facilitates study of best practices of foreign countries and mutual exchange of experience and data. This, in turn, allows Ombudsman and their Office to benchmark their experience against that of their colleagues as well as to introduce innovations and improve work on protection rights and freedoms of man and citizen.

In the year under review, work was carried out on development and coordination of cooperation in sphere of human rights in accordance with Strategic Plan of the Office of Ombudsman of Turkmenistan for 2024-2028 approved by order of Ombudsman dated 24 January 2024.

In 2025 as per Strategic Plan of the Office of Ombudsman and Working Plan for 2025, close cooperation was maintained with structural units of the United Nations, European Union, Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe and other international organizations. As part of practical work on development and strengthening of law enforcement diplomacy, Office of Ombudsman used a mechanism for formalizing interaction in form of work plans for cooperation and joint projects, which served as basis for expanding capabilities of Ombudsman and personnel.

In view of this, it shall be noted that in March this year, Working Plan of the Office of Ombudsman of Turkmenistan and UNICEF Representative Office in Turkmenistan for implementation of country program of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) for 2021-2025 was signed. This work plan provides for joint measures to further promote rights of children rights in Turkmenistan.

As it is known, Representative Office of the United Nations Children’s Fund in Turkmenistan is the main partner of the Office of Ombudsman in protection of rights of children, strengthening national mechanisms for their protection and implementing international standards. Within framework of partnership in accordance with plan of UNICEF, strategic planning and monitoring were carried out as well as various other activities involving representatives of government agencies dealing with children and child rights, local executive authorities and local governments, i.e., authorized bodies for protection of children at local level and bodies involved in justice implementation.

In the year under review, Ombudsman cooperated actively with International Labour Organization (ILO), which included exchange of experience in sphere of international labour standards, improving labour legislation, raising public awareness of labour rights as well as working together to protect citizens’ labor rights and improve working conditions.

Last year in February Ombudsman had a meeting with Miranda Fayerman, ILO representative; during this meeting they exchanged views on international labour standards and labour legislation of Turkmenistan as well as on role and activities of the Office of Ombudsman in reviewing applications and complaints on labour rights. Issues related to tasks’ implementation stipulated in Roadmap for cooperation between Government of Turkmenistan and International Labour Organization for 2024-2025, prospects for bilateral cooperation and ways to develop them were also discussed.

Along with this, representatives of the Office of Ombudsman participated in events held by representatives of this organization in February. In particular, representatives of the Office of Ombudsman, with participation of representatives of ILO Miranda Fayerman and Deepa Rishikesh, participated in joint working meeting to discuss activities for 2024 within framework of implementation of above-mentioned Roadmap between Government of Turkmenistan and ILO and also specified prospects for cooperation for 2025.

Representative office of the United Nations Development Program in Turkmenistan is also a reliable partner of the Office of Ombudsman. In April this year, final meeting of Project Council for implementation of joint project Increasing institutional capacity of the Office of Ombudsman of Turkmenistan was held, which was carried out by Office of Ombudsman of Turkmenistan jointly with this institution. Within framework of the mentioned project, measures have been taken to strengthen capacity of the Office of Ombudsman. Meeting was attended by Authorized Representative for Human Rights in Turkmenistan, Ombudsman and Permanent Representative of UNDP in Turkmenistan Ms. Narine Saakyan and results of implemented work were summed up for the period from 1 March 2023 to 30 April 2025 as well as above-mentioned project. During meeting, the parties assessed the results achieved within the framework of the project to strengthen cooperation between the Office of the Ombudsman of Turkmenistan and the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions, the Asia-Pacific Forum, as well as to strengthen the institutional capacity of the Office of the Ombudsman in accordance with the Paris Principles. The main directions of further cooperation were also discussed.

It shall be noted that Ombudsman is a member of interdepartmental humanitarian commissions established in our country and participates in their activities and meetings that express independent opinion on issues under consideration.

Within last year, Ombudsman of Turkmenistan participated in Steering Committee meetings for Implementation of Framework Program for Cooperation between Turkmenistan and the United Nations in sphere of Sustainable Development for 2021-2025 and in meetings of Turkmenistan–UN Strategic Advisory Council.

At the same time, it is important to highlight the participation of Ombudsman in meetings of Interdepartmental Commission for Ensuring Compliance with International Obligations of Turkmenistan in sphere of human rights and international humanitarian law, which took place last year to discuss a number of issues on human rights. Making a speech at Interdepartmental Commission meeting held in February, Ombudsman reported on work carried out in the country to strengthen and internationally recognize mechanism of human rights protection by confirmation readiness of the Office of Ombudsman for constructive dialogue and cooperation with all interested parties to improve effectiveness of this activity.

Meetings of Ombudsman of Turkmenistan with leadership and representatives of the United Nations, Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe and representatives of member States of European Union as well as relevant institutions of foreign countries played a significant role in development of international cooperation in sphere of human rights.

Among important meetings, attention shall be made to meetings with delegation led by Chief of Human Rights Council and Treaty Mechanisms Division of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), Mr. Mahamane Cisse-Gouro; Regional Representative of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) for Afghanistan, Central Asia, Iran and Pakistan, Oliver Stolpe; Senior Gender Adviser of Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), Ms. Lara Scarpitta; OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Rights, Kari Johnstone; Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of European Union to Turkmenistan, Ms. Beata Peksa; delegation led by Deputy Managing Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia of EU External Action Service (EEAS), Ms. Audronė Perkauskienė; Regional Director of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) for Europe and Central Asia, Ms. Regina De Dominicis; and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to Turkmenistan, Elizabeth Rood.

Guided by humanitarian principles, based on high value of human rights and guarantee of the inalienable rights and freedoms of every person and citizen, Office of Ombudsman of Turkmenistan actively uses mechanisms of bilateral and multilateral cooperation with foreign colleagues in order to improve mechanisms for protection of human rights and strengthen democratic foundations of society. On this basis, mutual exchange of experience is carried out, consultations and events are held on various topics.

In the period from 5 May to 9 May of the year under review, delegation of the Office of Ombudsman led by Ombudsman of Turkmenistan paid working visit to Republic of Türkiye. Within framework of annual working plan between Office of Ombudsman and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Country Office in Turkmenistan, the said visit included bilateral meetings at Chief Ombudsman Institution of Republic of Türkiye, Human Rights Inquiry Committee of Grand National Assembly of Republic of Türkiye, Human Rights and Equality Institution, Ministry of Family and Social Services and Ministry of Justice.

Delegation carried out a bilateral meeting with Chief Ombudsman of Republic of Türkiye, Mehmet Akarca; Ombudsman for Children’s Rights, Ms. Fatma Benli Yalçın; and Secretary General, Mehmet Doğan as well as with heads and specialists of Institution’s departments. During meeting, parties highlighted positive policies implemented by both countries to protect children’s rights to education, health care, social security and other rights. Discussions focused on role of Ombudsman institutions in activities carried out across various fields, implementation of best practices that consider the best interests of child and raising of awareness related to rights of children.

Within framework of visit, meetings were also held with Ms. Derya Yanık, Chairperson of Human Rights Committee of Grand National Assembly of the Republic of Türkiye and heads of Sub-Committee on Child Rights. During these meetings, information and experience were exchanged related to work that is carried out in sphere of human rights in both countries as well as practice of establishing interaction between country’s parliament and human rights institutions on a legislative basis.

Ombudsman of Turkmenistan carries out multilateral cooperation with foreign colleagues, aimed at implementation of international human rights standards, exchanging experience and strengthening institutional capacity. One of the main forms of such multilateral cooperation is regional cooperation. In view of this, on 11-12 September last year, Ombudsman and representative of Department for Protection of Women’s and Children’s Rights of the Office participated in international forum Current Issues in Improving Mechanisms for Protection of Child Rights in Central Asian Countries: Prospects for Regional Cooperation of Children’s Ombudsmen held in Tashkent, Republic of Uzbekistan. This forum that is dedicated to rights of children was held in Central Asia for the first time. Main goal of forum was to develop cooperation between competent authorities of Central Asian states in sphere of child rights, exchange experience and create a regional platform. In her speech at forum, Ombudsman highlighted effective work carried out in the country to ensure the best interests of children and their rights as well as ongoing state programs and role and activities of Authorized Representative for Human Rights in protecting children’s rights.

At the end of forum, Authorized Representatives signed a Declaration on Regional cooperation in sphere of child Rights protection in Central Asian Countries.

Within framework of forum, Authorized representatives of forum participants including Ombudsman of Turkmenistan, met with Chairman of Senate of Oliy Majlis of Republic of Uzbekistan, Tanzila Kamalovna Narbayeva and heads of National Center for Human Rights.

Bilateral cooperation in sphere of human rights between Turkmenistan and European Union including Office of Ombudsman of Turkmenistan is aimed at achieving results in solving important human rights issues. On 17 June last year Authorized Representative of Turkmenistan for Human Rights - Ombudsman joined delegation that took part in the 17^th meeting of Dialogue on Human Rights between Turkmenistan and European Union in Brussels (Kingdom of Belgium). Main purpose of meeting was to discuss a wide range of issues including strengthening rule of law, implementing national action plans in sphere of human rights, ensuring gender equality and cooperation in these areas between Turkmenistan and international organizations including European Union. During this meeting, Ombudsman delivered a speech and highlighted achievements of the Office of Ombudsman since the last 16^th meeting of Dialogue. In particular, it was noted that expansion of structure of the Office of Ombudsman as well as receipt by Office of Ombudsman of accreditation of Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions with assignment of “B” legal status is evidence of international recognition of human rights institution of our country.

In addition, within framework of Dialogue, Ombudsman of Turkmenistan held a bilateral meeting with Head of Cabinet of European Ombudsman, Mr. Lampros Papadias, main topic of which was to discuss issues related to establishing cooperation and exchanging experience between two structures.

As you know, International Year of Peace and Trust was full of major international forums that demonstrated our country’s firm commitment to purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter and international law as well as its willingness to actively promote and strengthen a culture of peace and trust in international politics. In this context, the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries held in our country in 2025 and meeting of women leaders From Commitment to Change: Women Driving Avaza Programme of Action for Landlocked Developing Countries, international conference: The Year of Peace and Trust: Development of international activities for the benefit of children, international conference: Role of Women in Modern Society: development of international cooperation towards achieving Goals of Sustainable Development, The first Ministerial Forum of Organization for Economic Cooperation (ECO) on sustainable Development held in Arkadag, strengthened our country’s position in organizing large-scale events for discussions on topical issues on regional and international agenda.

International Forum dedicated to International Year of Peace and Trust, International Day of Neutrality and the 30^th anniversary of Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan held on 12 December 2025 at the initiative of Turkmenistan in cooperation with the United Nations, became an important event of global cooperation and significant in identifying ways to strengthen international relations in new historical era. Ombudsman of Turkmenistan also participated in these international events.

At the same time, during the year under review, Ombudsman and representatives of the Office took part in international conferences within the framework of which they had an opportunity to exchange experience and establish cooperation with foreign colleagues.

In February of the year under review, delegation of representatives of the Office led by Ombudsman took part in international conference: Clean and Favorable Environment is a Guarantee of Ensuring Human Rights dedicated to the 30^th anniversary of institution of Authorized Person of Oliy Majlis for Human Rights (Ombudsman) of Republic of Uzbekistan. At this international forum, Ombudsman of Turkmenistan presented information on compliance in our country with universally recognized norms of international law and human rights to a favourable environment, reliable information on its state as enshrined in national legislation as well as on interaction of Ombudsman of Turkmenistan with parliament and civil society and work that is carried out in Turkmenistan in this direction.

Within framework of forum, delegation visited People’s Reception Chamber of President of Republic of Uzbekistan in Samarkand region, regional branch of Business Ombudsman Institute of Republic of Uzbekistan and Regional Branch of Authorized Person of Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan for Human Rights (Ombudsman) in Samarkand where they familiarized themselves with specifics of work of these state institutions.

Visit to the Republic of Uzbekistan concluded with participation of delegates of international conference: Clean and Favorable Environment is a Guarantee of Ensuring Human Rights in Samarkand where they took part in a tree-planting campaign in Ombudsman Park that was created as a symbol of alignment of ideas of human rights protection and environmental sustainability.

From 3 March to 8 March, International Year of Peace and Trust, delegation of the Office of Ombudsman of Turkmenistan headed by Ombudsman participated in conference: Human Rights Management Capacity Building Program organized by National Human Rights Commission in New Delhi, India. During conference, reports were presented and experience was exchanged on such topical issues as interdependence of cybersecurity with human rights, environment and human rights, role of sustainable development, importance of international cooperation in sphere of human rights as well as appeals and research in certain areas. Within framework of the forum, representative of the Office of Ombudsman of Turkmenistan made a special report highlighting work carried out in Turkmenistan in sphere of human rights, improving legislation and international cooperation. Along with this, activities and priority goals of the Office of Ombudsman as well as successes achieved were highlighted.

Last year, participation in forums of international organizations was also organized via videoconference. So, on 16 April 2025, Ombudsman participated online in the 4^th meeting of CIS Human Rights Commission, during which speeches and exchange of views took place related to preparation of Report, amendments and additions to work rules of Commission in respect of rights of youth of CIS member states, approval of emblem of Commission, organized holding of upcoming 5^th meeting and others.

In addition to above-mentioned forums, interaction was carried out throughout the year with leading regional organization-Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions. In May of the year under review, Ombudsman arranged video conference meeting with Pip Dargan, Principal Adviser of Asia Pacific Forum. Representatives of the United Nations Development Programme and Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights also participated in the meeting. Topic of discussion was implementation of recommendations given following assessment of work of the Office of Ombudsman in 2022, which was organized by Asia Pacific Forum with participation of representatives of UNDP, Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and independent expert.

On 12-13 November, delegation led by Ombudsman participated in the 30^th anniversary of General Meeting of Asia-Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions (APF) held in Nadi, Republic of Fiji. Its main goal was to share experiences and strengthen multilateral cooperation between regional national human rights organizations. At forum, Ombudsman of Turkmenistan made report on gender equality, which was included in agenda and provided detailed information on effective legislation in our country and implementation of international obligations in this area. At the same time, Ombudsman of Turkmenistan familiarized participants with structure of the Office of Ombudsman, its activities including work carried out by relevant Department for Gender Equality.

Delegation led by Ombudsman participated in the second meeting: Transition of Central Asian Ombudsman Institutions to Legal Status “A”: Strengthening Implementation of Paris Principles held on 27–28 November 2025 Helsinki, Republic of Finland. Within framework of OSCE chairpersonship by Finland, meeting was organized for the second time for Ombudsmen from Central Asian countries by Rule of Law Center and Center for Continuing Education of University of Helsinki. Its main goal was to exchange experience between Central Asian human rights organizations in implementation of Paris Principles and achieving legal status “A.”

During the year under review, active participation of Ombudsman and personnel of the Office in meetings with specialized international organizations, authorized human rights representatives from various countries and international experts had effective character in the issue of human rights protection and exchanging experience in this sphere.

On 17 January 2025, seminar dedicated to combating human trafficking and strengthening legal framework in this sphere was held with participation of International Organization for Migration expert Alexander Kirilenko, in which representatives of the Office of Ombudsman also took part. Main goal of the training was to provide familiarity with international practices for identifying victims of human trafficking by gender and age, protection their rights and promoting their interests during analytical work as well as strengthening legal framework in this area.

In March of the year under review, representative of the Office of Ombudsman participated in working meeting at level of representatives of National Steering and Coordination Committee established within framework of Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework between Turkmenistan and the United Nations for 2021-2025. Main topic of meeting was discussion of implementation of above-mentioned program and relevant issues with regards to draft of a similar document for 2026-2030.

On 16 May 2025, meeting was held online conference between representatives of the Office of Ombudsman and Ms. Katerina Stoliarova, an international expert from the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) for carrying out independent assessment. Purpose of meeting was assessment of implementation of Regional Programme for Promoting Gender-Responsive Social Norms and exchanging experience in sphere of preventing gender-based violence. During meeting, parties discussed issues of strengthening women’s rights in national legislation as well as results and significance of trainings organized by UNFPA experts in this sphere.

From 27 October till 30 October of the year under review, seminar was held for personnel of the Office of Ombudsman organized by the United Nations Children’s Fund Office in Turkmenistan with participation of experts from the Institute of Ombudsman of Republic of Turkey, Ms. Aisha Deniz Aygun and Ms. Dilek Demir Aslan. During this seminar experts shared their experience in implemention of basic principles and standards of working with children in mind, investigation of cases of violations of rights of children as well as collecting data and documents. They also provided a detailed overview of activities of the Institute of Ombudsman of the Republic of Turkey with regards to decision-making and preparation of reports on cases related to rights of children, raising awareness of Turkish population about rights of children and work of Ombudsman.

Representatives of the Office of Ombudsman participated in number of seminars organized during the year by OSCE Center in Ashgabat with participation of international experts on various aspects of work of Ombudsman. On 28 July 2025, seminar on digitalization of activities aimed at promoting and protecting rights of entrepreneurs was held at Center of Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe in Ashgabat. Main purpose of seminar is familiarization with achievements in sphere of digitalization of work of business Ombudsmen and international best practices in promoting and protecting rights of entrepreneurs. At the same time, seminar was aimed at studying Ombudsman’s international experience and development goals including his role in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises.

In addition, a representative of the Office of Ombudsman participated in regional conference on conflict prevention and implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 Women, Peace and Security on 27-28 May. Forum was attended by Lara Scarpitta, Senior Adviser to OSCE Secretary General on Gender Issues, Teri Hakala, Special Representative of organization, Ambassador John McGregor, Head of OSCE Center in Ashgabat and international experts. Purpose of forum was to discuss possibilities of cooperation in framework of above-mentioned Resolution implementation.

During the year under review, representatives of the Office of Ombudsman made study trips abroad to exchange information and experience on uniform application of international human rights standards in participating States.

For the period from 21 January to 23 January 2025, representative of the Office of Ombudsman within framework of project of OSCE Center in Ashgabat - Bringing penitentiary system of Turkmenistan in line with international standards participated in a study tour to The Hague of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Purpose of study visit is to introduce national specialists to international experience within the framework of above–mentioned project. During meetings, international documents and national legislation were discussed as well as methodological consultations and an exchange of views on experience of other countries on observance of rights of persons serving sentences in correctional institutions, creating conditions in correctional institutions as well as on types of punishments that apply to persons brought to criminal responsibility.

In addition, within framework of Border Management Programme in Central Asia (BOMCA) of the European Union for 2025, representatives of the Office of Ombudsman went from the 13^th till 16^th of May, 2025 with working visit to Rome, Italy. During this visit members of Turkmen delegation met with representatives of the Department for Equal Opportunities of the Women in International Security organization as well as with representatives of Department of Public Security of Ministry of Internal Affairs of Italian Republic. During the meeting with Ombudsman of Lazio Region, Dr. Marino Fardinelli, they familiarized themselves with mechanisms used to strengthen protection of human rights in Italian Republic at the state and regional levels.

On 5 September of the year under review, conference was held in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic dedicated to completion of the 10^th phase of BOMCA program and presentation of its 11^th phase. Representative of the Office of Ombudsman participated in the event as part of delegation from Turkmenistan. During forum, leaders and experts of BOMCA program presented reports on work accomplished, achievements and technical support provided within framework of Program.

During the year under review, representatives of the Office of Ombudsman actively participated in consultations on preparation of Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework between Turkmenistan and the United Nations for 2026-2030 on monitoring and reporting in sphere of reproductive health and reproductive rights and on development of National Action Plan for Gender Equality in Turkmenistan for 2026-2030. They also familiarized themselves with advanced international practices in improving national legislation aimed at family well-being.

Protection of rights of child is a priority state task the purpose of which is to ensure safety as well as physical, mental and spiritual development of minors that is crucial for raising a healthy generation and securing a stable future for the country. In this context, Ombudsman by promoting implementation of rights of children to education, healthcare, proper upbringing and other rights, attaches great importance to cooperation with international system of child rights protection based on the UN Convention on Rights of the Child. In accordance with annual work plan of the Office of Ombudsman alongside performing relevant work in this area, active participation was also taken in events dedicated to rights of children. Among them:

22^nd of January: Meeting of Working Group on developing Roadmap to improve operations of family support services;

28^th of January – 5^th of February: Working meetings and seminars with participation of Farkhod Khamidov, international expert;

3^rd of April: Meeting held within framework of Regional Initiative to reduce stigma in sphere of mental health;

2^nd of May: Presentation of key results of the latest stage of Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS-7) carried out by office of UNICEF in Turkmenistan;

12-14^th of May: Seminar with participation of international experts on ethics of disseminating information related to children;

30^th of May: Seminar on rights of minors conducted during working visit of Irina Urumova, UNICEF international expert to Turkmenistan;

4^th of June: Working meeting on developing types of alternative family-based care;

24^th of June: Working meeting on fulfillment by the country of its obligations under Convention on Rights of the Child.

Active participation of Ombudsman of Turkmenistan and representatives of their Office in seminars, conferences and roundtables on various aspects of human rights protection contributed to enhancing their knowledge and experience in this sphere.

In general, Ombudsman currently participates in all international processes protecting interests of the country in sphere of human rights on various universal and regional platforms, being a constant partner of international organizations, associations of Ombudsmen and foreign colleagues in sphere of human rights protection. Multilateral and comprehensive international cooperation of Authorized Representative for Human Rights in Turkmenistan based on national and international legal norms and principles, fully demonstrates that protection of rights of citizens is improved and guarantees for protection of human rights in Turkmenistan are increased including through applying international best human rights practices.

With the purpose of further development of cooperation with foreign colleagues and international organizations aimed at implementing generally recognized international human rights standards and strengthening ties with all actors in sphere of human rights protection in accordance with above-mentioned areas of international activities of Ombudsman, we propose as follows:

- to further strengthen relations with the UN structural units (UNDP, UNICEF, OHCHR), OSCE, and other international organizations in order to promote national achievements in sphere of protecting human and civil rights; 

- to continue assisting in legislative activities to ensure compliance of national legislation with international standards taking into account recommendations of the UN treaty bodies adopted by Turkmenistan. 

 Chapter VIII. Inquiries and Recommendations of Ombudsman

 Activities of Ombudsman within the framework of authorities and basic functions provided for in Articles 18 and 19 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman are to consider complaints from citizens of Turkmenistan regardless of their location as well as foreign citizens and stateless persons with residence in Turkmenistan. Procedure for citizens to apply to Ombudsman as well as rights and duties of Ombudsman to assist in restoring violated human and civil rights and freedoms are specified in Articles 28 and 29 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman.

This chapter of Report will highlight some of appeals sent by Ombudsman based on Article 27 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman to competent state bodies and officials with a request for assistance in investigating complaints accepted for proceedings as well as violations of law identified as a result of complaints and conclusions drawn. Along with this, measures taken in accordance with Article 30 of Law to eliminate circumstances, causes and conditions that led to situations involving violations of human rights and freedoms will be described.

This chapter describes work carried out by Ombudsman on appeals accepted for proceedings and complaints sent in connection with need for verification to ministries and departments, local executive authorities and law enforcement agencies to assist. It also provides information about work carried out with their assistance and results obtained.

Article 49 of Constitution of Turkmenistan stipulates that everyone has a right to work, choice of profession, occupation and place of employment at their own discretion, healthy and safe working conditions, as well as the right to receive remuneration for their labour based on its quantity and quality. Labour Code of Turkmenistan establishes norms related to labour relations, working conditions, rights and obligations of parties as well as other regulations. Based on results of inspections carried out in respect of complaints received by the Office of Ombudsman with regards to violations of legally established rights, cases of legal violations have been identified.

In particular, B.H., resident of Boldumsaz etrap of Dashoguz velayat, who was assigned to work as a specialist with a degree of higher education, filed a complaint with expression of dissatisfaction with workload distribution. Her appeal was accepted by Ombudsman for consideration. Following an inspection carried out with assistance of relevant state body, it was established as follows: educational institution distributed hours unevenly and without taking into account professional training; requirements of Methodological Guidelines on Procedure for Employees Wages Calculation of Educational Institutions approved by Order No. 257 of the Minister of Education of Turkmenistan dated 12 November 2018 in coordination with Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of Population of Turkmenistan were not observed and as a result, violation occurred with regards to equal rights in labour relations. As a result of the inspection, workload for B.H. was re-distributed in accordance with procedure established by legislation and official who committed the said violation was brought to disciplinarily responsibility.

Item 5 of Part one, Article 13 of Labour Code of Turkmenistan stipulates a right to equal pay for work of equal value without any discrimination and right to receive full wages in accordance with qualifications, level of knowledge, complexity of work and quantity and quality of performed work. During inspections carried out with regards to complaints received by Office of Ombudsman related to violations of this right that is defined in Labour Code, cases were identified on legal violations.

Particularly, Ombudsman accepted for proceedings appeal from H.A. and other residents of Balkanabat city of Balkan velayat; they expressed dissatisfaction with non-payment of additional wage allowance for traveling to work due to change in location of workplace. During carried out inspection with assistance of relevant state body, it was established that in accordance with Part six of Article 33 of Labour Code of Turkmenistan, when employees are transferred to another position within same organization, but with a mobile workplace then wages shall be paid at hourly rate as per Staff list, however established 20% allowance for transport expenses was not paid. As a result, 34 employees of this institution were paid an additional amount of 21,928.33 manats to their wages.

In accordance with Article 111 of Labour Code of Turkmenistan, employer regardless of their financial position shall pay to employee for the work performed by them in accordance with established conditions and deadlines for remuneration. Despite this, in some appeals accepted by the Office of Ombudsman for proceedings, cases were identified on failure to comply with this legal requirement. Particularly, A.S., resident of Dashoguz city of Dashoguz velayat has been working for 34 years in a state institution of the said velayat and terminated voluntarily in 2025, expressed dissatisfaction with payment made to him as part of final settlement since applicant had worked without taking annual leave for recent years. In this regard, he appealed to the Office of Ombudsman with a request to provide assistance in resolving this issue. When this application was accepted by Ombudsman for proceedings another appeal was also received from K.M., resident of Dashoguz city who had worked at the same institution for 17 years and terminated voluntarily in 2025. In this appeal dissatisfaction was expressed with payment of final settlement as he did not take annual leave for 6 years. Application contained a request for providing assistance in resolving this issue.

Based on request of Ombudsman with regards to above-mentioned applications with similar issues, document review was conducted with participation of specialists from organization for labour and employment. This review established exact years during which citizen A.S. did not take annual leave, namely in 1996-2000, 2002-2003, 2004-2009, 2011-2012, 2016-2017, 2019-2020 and 2023–2024. It was also established that unused annual labour leave pertaining to period of his employment was not financially compensated.

In the same way, it was established that citizen K.M. did not use his main annual leave in 2009-2010, 2018-2019, 2022-2023 and 2023-2024, and unused annual leave pertaining to period of his employment was also not financially compensated.

As the result, it was established that violation of provision of Part three of Article 109 of Labour Code of Turkmenistan occurred that states: Upon dismissal of employee, monetary compensation shall be paid for all unused annual main and additional leaves.

Based on results of inspection, in accordance with procedure established in Part three of Article 92 of Labour Code of Turkmenistan, citizen A.S. was entitled to additional payment in the amount of 23,769.46 manats for 86 days of unused annual leave and citizen K.M. was entitled to additional payment in the amount of 10,959.9 manats for 67.5 days of unused annual leave. This enterprise made full settlement with these citizens. Official by whom was committed violations was brought to administrative responsibility (for violation of labour legislation) in accordance with Article 304 of Code of Turkmenistan on Administrative Offenses.

Cases of legal violations related to labour law also occur in private sector.

Such as, R.D., resident of Boldumsaz etrap of Dashoguz velayat appealed to Ombudsman with an application to provide assistance in payment of his wages for months of November-December 2024 that was not timely paid to him - period of his employment as a construction worker at Muhammet Balkan Economic Society. As it was stated, repeated appeals of applicant to Employer with regards to this issue did not bring positive result.

After acceptance of this appeal by Ombudsman for proceedings and transfer to Muhammet Balkan Economic Society in accordance with procedure established by law for review, the written reply was received from Head of this organization with indication that he had a meeting with citizen R.D., and his wages had been paid to him in the amount of 2,500 manats.

Most of appeals received from citizens concerns violations of right to housing, namely offenses related to equity-shared residential construction. In this regard, it would be appropriate to highlight some of them.

Articles 20, 21 and 27 of Law of Turkmenistan On Equity-Shared Construction of Residential Houses and Other Real Estate Objects establish obligations of real-estate developer with regards to completion of construction of an equity-shared construction facility within timeframe stipulated by equity-shared construction contract as well as rectification of defects committed during construction of equity-shared construction facility and ensuring proper functioning of equipment installed in residential houses. Despite this, legal violations are committed during construction, which causes dissatisfaction among citizens after commissioning of the facility. In view of this, we deem it appropriate to provide several examples related to this issue.

Such as, K.M., resident of Kaka etrap of Ahal velayat bought a three-room apartment in one of four four-storied apartment buildings constructed by Mynasyp Gerchek Individual Enterprise based on equity-shared construction contract. As it is stated in the appeal, applicant has fully paid cost of apartment and moved into it after commissioning of constructed building and rectified existing defects at his own expense since quality of inner construction, finishing and installation of water, gas and electricity supply systems was low. Appeal contained request to provide assistance in taking measures in respect of construction organization that carried out equity-shared construction.

Application was accepted by Ombudsman for proceedings and during carried out inspection by relevant authority based on request of Ombudsman, quality of works performed was analyzed in residential houses constructed by Mynasyp Gerchek Individual Enterprise. As the result, it was established that construction and assembly works were not in compliance with design documentation, number of defects were committed during construction as well as requirements of Construction norms of Turkmenistan were violated. Based on results, it was reported that Office of Prosecutor General of Turkmenistan established State Commission for residential buildings acceptance and proposal to introduce amendments to relevant State Acts were submitted to Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan for consideration. Work in this direction has been taken under control of Ombudsman.

Moreover, H.A., resident of Dashoguz city of Dashoguz velayat submitted application to Office of Ombudsman, expressing dissatisfaction with regards to advance payment of 30% of the cost of appartment in a four-storied, 16-appartment residential building planned for construction through preferential loans by Wepaly perzentler Individual Enterprise, construction works have not yet started.

Appeal was accepted by Ombudsman for proceedings and based on results of carried out inspection, it was established that by Wepaly perzentler Individual Enterprise violations were committed related to delays within established deadlines for execution of construction and assembly works. As it was reported, by etrap Hyakim decision, Contractor for construction of the facility that is funded by long-term preferential loans, was replaced and construction was handed over to Guwanchly bina Individual Enterprise, after which contracts were signed.

One more example was related to appeal of Ya.R., resident of Dashoguz city of Dashoguz velayat; applicant reported that he concluded a contract for buying appartment in 4-storied, 48-appartment residential house that is constructed by Merdana doganlar Individual Enterprise by equity-shared construction. Despite the fact that he made advance payment in the amount of 560,000 manats, construction of building that was scheduled to be commissioned in December 2022, has not started yet. In this regard, he appealed to Ombudsman with request to provide assistance in return of made advance payment.

This application was accepted by Ombudsman for proceedings and based on results of inspection, it was reported that contract concluded between Ya.R. and Merdana doganlar Individual Enterprise was terminated and funds paid by him in advance were returned. Despite the fact that payment made by citizen Ya.R. was refunded, issue related to reasons that he appealed with regards to demand paid amount back namely, failure to construct and commission residential building within established timeframe remains open.

There are also some cases when local executive bodies review applications of citizens in superficial manner with regards to implementation of their right to private housing.

Particularly, application of A.A., resident of Ahal velayat, expressed dissatisfaction with actions of local authorities related to documentation of the house, which was constructed by him on a land plot where he lives with his family. Appeal was accepted by Ombudsman for proceedings and reviewed with assistance of Ahal velayat Hyakimlik. As the result of implemented work, Hyakimlik of etrap performed an inventory of constructed house on land plot of citizen A.A. and registered it as real estate, thereby satisfying application of the citizen.

Despite the fact that huge work is carried out in accordance with Program of President of Turkmenistan for Social-Economic Development of the Country for 2022-2028 and National Program of President of Turkmenistan on Transformation of Social and Living Conditions of Population of Villages, Towns, Cities of Etraps and Etrap Centers for the Period up to 2028, written appeals are received where citizens express dissatisfaction with carried out work to supply with natural gas and electricity as well as with construction and repair of roads. In this regard, we will focus on some of them.

In particular, J.B., resident of Dyanev etrap of Lebap velayat, expressed in his appeal dissatisfaction of residents of the village where he lives with actions of local authorities. As it was informed, due to expansion of settlements, new households are newly formed and located in their etrap, but they are improperly supplied with natural gas and electricity. This results to the fact that population needs to install gas and electricity networks and repair roads at their own expense.

This appeals was accepted for proceedings by Office of Ombudsman and based on Article 27 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman, this inquiry was sent to Hyakimlik of Lebap velayat. From reply received from Hyakimlik of Lebap velayat it follows that investigation was held and reconstruction of the said road is planned to be carried out via Centralized State Capital Investments and that relevant work is currently underway to install electricity transmission line.

Another appeal received by the Office of Ombudsman refers to dissatisfaction with work of local self-government bodies in sphere of housing construction and social security. Namely, in the appeal from B.A. and others (56 people in total) from Gokdepe etrap of Ahal velayat it is stated that despite living in residential building constructed in the said etrap through a 30-year mortgage banking and commissioned in 2021, proper supply of potable water and electricity has not yet established and sewage system is not in compliance with specified requirements. This resulted to unauthorized use of electricity by residents. Repeated appeals to Hyakimlik of etrap did not give any results. In this regard, applicants requested assistance in resolving this issue.

This appeal was accepted for proceedings and following carried out investigation by Hyakimlik of Ahal velayat based on inquiry from Ombudsman, reports were provided on specific work accomplished to resolve issue raised in the appeal, namely, issue was reviewed by the Capital Construction Department of Hyakimlik of Ahal velayat; construction of water supply system is completed by 90 percent; necessary equipment was purchased for completion of power supply system installation and work is underway to set up electrical grid as well as design and estimate documentation for internal roads construction has been fully prepared.

Other appeals submitted by citizens to Office of Ombudsman contain requests for providing assistance in obtaining decisions that comply with requirements of legislation on number of other issues. Appeals expressing dissatisfaction with outcomes of matters falling within competence of state authorities were reviewed through submission of inquiries to central higher-level authority of respective institution.

Significant number of these appeals relate to migration issues. Based on inquiries by Ombudsman, they are referred to State Migration Service of Turkmenistan since they are related to issuance by competent migration authority of permits for citizens to travel abroad. Submitted appeals raise issues related to obstacles encountered by citizens who need to travel to foreign countries due to exceptional circumstances. In response to each application submitted by citizens, State Migration Service of Turkmenistan often provides a brief notification with regards to possibility of leaving and entering territory of Turkmenistan in accordance with the law.

Appeals are also received from citizens with regards to violations of their rights when they refer to private sector to arrange travel abroad. For example, R.O. and three other residents of Tagtabazar etrap of Mary velayat approached Mirasa syyahat Individual Enterprise, which operates in tourism sector in Turkmenistan with request to provide assistance with arranging travel abroad for employment. As it was indicated in this appeal, despite each of them paid more than 70,000 manats, they were unable to travel abroad. In this regard, they submitted application seeking assistance to refund paid funds. This appeal was accepted for proceedings and during carried out investigation at request of Ombudsman with assistance of relevant law enforcement agency, it was established that Mirasa syyahat Individual Enterprise that operates under license from Ministry of Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan prepared travel documents for citizens who appealed to Ombudsman and received specified amount of money. It was also established that due to duration of visa processing period, applicants without waiting for respond demanded return of their biometric passports and paid funds. As a result of carried out investigation, funds paid by citizens were refunded.

Complaints from citizens who became victims of fraudulent actions by persons that deceitfully misappropriated their money and evaded to return them also were received by the Office of Ombudsman. In one of such appeals received by the Office of Ombudsman from M.Sh., resident of Shabat etrap of Dashoguz velayat, it was stated that persons whom he approached requesting assistance in exempting his son from military service due to illness, deceitfully took 30,000 manats from the said. In this regard, applicant requested assistance in taking measures against specified individual and recovering his money.

This application was accepted for proceedings and in the course of carried out inspection at inquiry of Ombudsman, it was established that applicant, citizen M.Sh., gave 30,000 manats to person K.Z. through K.B., who served as intermediary, to exempt his son from military service. However, person who took responsibility for this case did not keep his promise and was hiding. In the course of inspection, the said amount of funds was fully refunded to applicant. It was also reported that additional evidence was collected to determine whether there was a crime in the incident.

In this part of Report, we deem it appropriate to highlight one of the applications received by Office of Ombudsman with regards to superficial consideration and negligence of local executive authorities in responding to appeals for compliance with legal requirements in conducting Enterpreneurship in private sector.

In particular, M.M., a businessman and resident of Shabat etrap of Dashoguz velayat, appealed to Office of Ombudsman with request to provide assistance in providing him with an unused plot of land with saline soil in territory of etrap on a contractual basis for fish farming. It is stated in application that his appeal to Hyakimlik of above-mentioned etrap of Dashoguz velayat was left without consideration. This application was accepted for proceeding and in accordance with Article 27 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman, an official inquiry was sent to Hyakim of Dashoguz velayat with request to render assistance in checking of facts indicated in application.

In official written respond of Deputy Hyakim of Dashoguz velayat to inquiry of Ombudsman, it is indicated that issues raised in application of citizen M.M. were not considered in detail and studied superficially without assessing compliance with requirements of current legislation. It was also clarified that in case of disagreement with taken decision in accordance with Law of Turkmenistan On Administrative Proceedings, applicant has a right to appeal in court.

Office of Ombudsman has considered issue raised in the application and having studied the respond of Deputy Hyakim of Dashoguz velayat to this appeal, emphasized that citizens wishing to use or lease land plots including those wishing to engage in entrepreneurial activity shall contact organizations provided for by provisions of legislation, which are responsible for regulating land relations in Turkmenistan, namely Articles 16-21 of Code of Turkmenistan On Land as well as Procedure for registration of acts on acquisition of ownership, on use and lease of land plots approved by Decree of President of Turkmenistan No. 1032 dated 17 July 2024. At the same time, official request was sent to Hyakim of Dashoguz velayat to re-examine the issue indicated in application of citizen M.M.

The issue raised by citizen M.M. in his application was repeatedly studied by Hyakimlik of Dashoguz velayat and as a result, official respond was provided where it is stated that on 14.08.2025 Agreement was concluded between relevant Farmers’ Association and entrepreneur M.M. On lease of land for cultivation of fish products and creation of feeding areas for fish.

There are also appeals with regards to citizens’ dissatisfaction with improper implementation of current legislation in sphere of crop production, implementation of tasks of government and regulation of relations between farmers and agricultural processing enterprises. Example of this is appeal by farmer S.A. and other residents of Halach etrap of Lebap velayat in which it is stated that farmers who grew cotton on leased areas in 2023-2025 after handing over cotton harvest to state, were not returned their livestock feed. In this regard, applicants requested assistance in resolving this issue. This appeal was accepted by Ombudsman for proceeding and as a result of carried out inspection with assistance of relevant authority, it was established that in total 21,511 kg of cake of seeds were not provided to applicants-farmers. As a result of carried out inspection, it was reported that applicants were provided in full with livestock feed for cotton harvest completed in 2023-2024 and quantity of livestock feed required for hand over by farmer of cotton harvest completed in 2025, which will be provided after processing of the completed crop was determined.

Moreover, some appeals received by Office of Ombudsman involve cases arising from conventional attitude of government agencies toward rights and legitimate interests of citizens where citizens refer to Office of Ombudsman with regards to simple matters that could easily be resolved locally. Following appeal can be provided as an example.

In appeal of T.T., resident of Turkmenbashy city of Balkan velayat it was indicated that in February 2025, air tickets for him and his family members were bought via Internet for domestic flight in Turkmenistan in accordance with which they flew in one way. Tickets for return flight were not used and were timely returned. In order to refund money for unused air tickets, applicant repeatedly applied to Public Service institutions of Turkmenhovayollary but this issue was not resolved. In this regard, appeal to Office of Ombudsman contained a request for providing assistance in funds refund.

This application was accepted by Ombudsman for proceeding and in accordance with Part 1 of Article 30 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman, request was sent to Turkmenhovayollary State Service to refund funds to citizen T.T. for unused and returned air tickets. As a result, Turkmenhovayollary State Service notified in writing that funds for returned air tickets were refunded to citizen T.T.

Among applications received from citizens, there are complaints related to dissatisfaction with court decisions or execution of court decisions. In accordance with Part four of Article 21 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman filing a complaint to Ombudsman does not prevent applicant from applying to court. When studying appeals, it was revealed that issues raised were previously considered by relevant velayat courts as well as Supreme Court of Turkmenistan. Following examples show some of appeals accepted by the Office of Ombudsman and in accordance with Article 30 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman based on recommendation, were satisfied as a result of carried out work by Supreme Court of Turkmenistan.

Office of Ombudsman accepted for proceeding application from T.M., resident of Ashgabat with request to change sentence of etrap court sentence with regard to T.O., to cancel court decision with regard to transfer his private housing as compensation for damages caused by convicted persons and void bailiff's order related to this issue. This application was forwarded to Supreme Court of Turkmenistan with request to provide information on outcome of proceedings in this case. Based on request of Ombudsman, issue raised in application of citizen T.M. was reviewed by Supreme Court of Turkmenistan. In accordance with Report, housing specified in the application along with several other real estate properties was seized by relevant etrap court of Ashgabat under principle of joint and several liability for restitution of damages caused to victims by persons sentenced to imprisonment. During the review of case by Civil Cases Panel of Ashgabat city Court, it was reported that within framework of the lawsuit proceedings and in accordance with Article 38 of Civil Procedure Code of Turkmenistan, all case circumstances will be examined including issue stipulated in application and legal assessment will be carried out with regards to lawfulness of the claim for damages imposed on the said private property.

Examples can also be provided with regards to appeals related to dissatisfaction with the execution of judicial decree. In particular, G.M., resident of Mary velayat approached the Office of Ombudsman with complaint claiming that his house is located in common space. Despite the fact that all residents have equal rights to use common space, his neighbour, M.B., violated rules for using common space by constructing additional building, thereby causing inconvenience to other residents. Applicant had initially raised this issue with local government authority, which failed to take an appropriate decision. Following this, he filed a lawsuit with city court, which ruled in his favour and issued a corresponding decision. Despite judicial decree that was sent to Hyakimlik of city for execution, decision was not implemented. In view of this, applicant requested to provide assistance with this issue. Having accepted this application for proceeding and based on Article 27 of Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman, a request was sent to Hyakim of Mary velayat to eliminate obstacles to execution of judicial decree. As a result of work carried out as per request of Ombudsman, Hyakimlik of Mary velayat informed that illegally constructed structures in the common space where citizen G.M. and others reside was demolished and judicial decree was implemented.

It shall be noted that one of core areas of activities of Ombudsman is promoting development of international cooperation in sphere of human rights. In cases where necessity arises to review appeals in territory of Turkmenistan from authorized representatives for Human Rights of other countries, Ombudsman carries out relevant work within the scope of their authority.

During the year under review, one appeal was received from foreign authorized representatives for Human Rights, particularly from Authorized representative for Human Rights of Russian Federation. Appeal contained a request to provide assistance a citizen of Russian Federation who previously lived and worked in Turkmenistan in obtaining certificates confirming their period of employment at institutions as well as their wages. These documents were necessary for correct calculation and assignment of their pension. In accordance with legislation of Turkmenistan, relevant work was carried out with regards to this appeal and a satisfactory response was sent.

Despite the fact that satisfactory decisions are reached based on results of reviewed appeals submitted to the Office of Ombudsman, it is necessary to draw attention of officials and authorized bodies to committed violations.

In accordance with annual work plan of the Office of Ombudsman as part of official visits to velayats of the country in 2025, during reception sessions held by Ombudsman at Hyakimlik together with members of special group for reviewing citizen appeals listened to complaints of citizens, held consultations with regards to them with local government authorities and verbally conveyed requests for assistance.

Every verbal and written appeal received and reviewed by Office of Ombudsman was processed in accordance with the Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman and appropriate decisions were taken.

Chapter IХ. Conclusion

This Report of Authorized representative for Human Rights in Turkmenistan - Ombudsman prepared in accordance with the Article 20 of the Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman highlights work carried out throughout 2025, which was declared as International Year of Peace and Trust, situation regarding protection and observance of human and civil rights and freedoms in our country as well as results of exercising powers and duties established by above-mentioned Law. Distinguishing feature of this Report is that last year, which was marked by celebration of 30^th anniversary of permanent neutrality of Turkmenistan and the 80^th anniversary of the United Nations increased attention was dedicated to human and civil rights and freedoms. The Report presented here contains information on work performed by the Office of Ombudsman based on Work Plan for 2025 and summarizes data on observance of human rights and freedoms in our country.

Report presents information on violations of law identified during investigations of citizens’ appeals, outcomes of carried out work on them, examples of restoration of citizens’ rights as well as core areas of activities of Ombudsman such as promoting development of international relations in sphere of human rights, improving national legislation and raising awareness and understanding of human rights.

At the end of each chapter of this Report, Ombudsman provides recommendations for improving work in respective areas and strengthening oversight. As a result of above-mentioned, it is evident that protection and observance of human rights and freedoms in our country are at the center of special attention of the state and despite the immense work carried out in this area, violations of law still occur. These violations were revealed in course of inspections at separate organizations and enterprises as well as during review of citizens’ appeals on their merits in accordance with legally established procedure and within prescribed timeframes.

As a result, 24 recommendations with regards to restoration of violated rights, bringing officials who committed violations to justice in accordance with law and preventing future offenses were provided by Ombudsman. At the same time, it shall be noted that Ombudsman exercised authority not only within government agencies or local self-government bodies, but also in the private sector.

In final part of Report we express our hope that responsible officials of state government bodies, local self-government bodies, members of local elected bodies and deputies of Mejlis of Turkmenistan, having familiarized themselves with this Report of Ombudsman of Turkmenistan dedicated to outcomes of 2025, will draw conclusions from results of carried out work in our state, take into account remarks on ensuring, protecting and implementation of human and civil rights and freedoms, and within scope of their authorities contribute to further strengthening observance of human rights in our country.

In conclusion of the Report, we express our gratitude to the Government of Turkmenistan for provided support and conditions created to enable Ombudsman to fully execute functions and powers vested in them in accordance with the Law of Turkmenistan On Ombudsman as well as for further improvement of activities of the Office of Ombudsman. Ombudsman and personnel of the Office assure that they will perform their work in accordance with requirements of the times and will dedicate their skills, knowledge and experience to ensuring strict compliance with human rights and freedoms guaranteed and stipulated in Constitution and Laws of Turkmenistan.