Turkmenistan Life & Culture - The Times Of Central Asia

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Mass Die-Out of Seals on the Turkmen Coast of the Caspian Sea

Another mass die-out of seals from an unknown disease has occurred on the Turkmen coast of the Caspian Sea, Radio Azatlyk has reported. In recent days, experts have found dozens of dead seals, whilst the Turkmen authorities have ordered the military to shoot animals swimming to the shore. But oceanographers are dissatisfied with the actions of the authorities. "The state believes that seals are not needed,” said an expert who wishes to remain anonymous. “If these animals are killed, as they do with stray dogs and cats, they will soon disappear. Instead of shooting and destroying seals, the state should increase the number of specialists studying these animals and increase efforts to save them." Caspian seals are considered endemic to the Caspian Sea and are listed in the Red Book of Turkmenistan, as well as in the Red Book of the International Union for Conservation of Nature. According to oceanologists, the death of Caspian seals in the winter and spring season every year has become a trend. It is still impossible to say exactly what the cause of the mass die-outs is, since no information has been released about the studies conducted. But Turkmen oceanologists attribute the main cause of the deaths to be the violation of the ecology of the Caspian Sea, emissions from oil and gas enterprises, regular naval exercises, and an increase in factories in coastal areas. In August of this year, Turkmen Foreign Minister, Rashid Meredov expressed his concerns about the deteriorating ecology of the Caspian Sea, including the mass death of seals in 1997, 2000, 2021 and 2022. However, no concrete steps have been taken to remedy the issue.

Turkmenistan Justice Turkmenistan Life & Culture Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan Participates in 75th Anniversary of Adoption of Universal Declaration of Human Rights in Geneva

The commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights witnessed the active involvement of Turkmenistan's justice representatives in significant high-level events held in Geneva, Switzerland, on December 11-12. Adalatchy Yazdursun Gurbannazarova, the designated human rights representative in Turkmenistan, participated in the "Human Rights 75" events, a series organized by the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. The Turkmen delegation also engaged in a parallel event hosted by the non-governmental organization, BDG, and the non-commercial organization, INHR, alongside national human rights institutions of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. The momentous occasion, dedicated to honoring the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, convened eminent figures from international organizations, delegation leaders, and national human rights entities. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, extended congratulations during the conference's inauguration, acknowledging the milestone of the declaration's adoption. Participating in these crucial discussions, Turkmenistan’s representatives conveyed the nation's accomplishments and contributions to the advancement of human rights and the rule of law. Turkmenistan's commitments within the framework of "Human Rights 75" initiatives and its support for implementing the Universal Declaration of Human Rights were highlighted. Key pledges encompassed enhancing international cooperation, fortifying youth policies, implementing environmental approaches to safeguard human rights, and addressing statelessness within Turkmenistan.

Turkmenistan Life & Culture Turkmenistan International Affairs Turkmenistan Turkmenistan Local Politics

Turkmenistan to Open Specialized Training Center “Diplomatic Protocol” at the Institute of International Relations

Turkmenistan is taking strides in reforming its education sector with a particular focus on training diplomatic personnel. In line with this objective, the President of Turkmenistan has signed a resolution for the establishment of a Specialized Training Center “Diplomatic Protocol” at the Institute of International Relations (IIR) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to raising the standard of its diplomatic corps in accordance with international guidelines. The new training center will equip diplomats with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate complex diplomatic protocols and effectively represent Turkmenistan in the global arena. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the Ministry of Adalat, has been tasked to prepare and present proposals within a month. These proposals will outline the necessary changes and additions to the existing legislation of Turkmenistan that are required to implement the President's resolution. The establishment of the Specialized Training Center “Diplomatic Protocol” is expected to further enhance the professional capabilities of Turkmen diplomats, fostering stronger international relations and facilitating more effective communication with their counterparts around the world.

Turkmenistan Justice Turkmenistan Life & Culture Turkmenistan

Turkmen Activist Malikberdy Allamyradov Disappears in Russia

About three days ago, Turkmen activist Malikberdy Allamyradov, who lives in Russia, ceased to be in contact, his associates reported. Allamyradov is best known for his single picket protest against restrictions on currency conversion imposed by the Turkmen authorities which he staged as a student at Kalmyk State University in the city of Elista in 2021. Allamyradov was detained by the police for violating the laws on protesting, but a court acquitted him, finding no wrongdoing in his actions. Allamyradov has since continued to criticize the Turkmen authorities on the internet. A few months ago, he was forced to change his place of residence after receiving a warning from an acquaintance that he was going to be deported to Turkmenistan. According to his friends, traces of a struggle and blood were found in Allamyradov’s place of residence.

Turkmenistan Life & Culture Turkmenistan Turkmenistan Local Politics

Turkmenistan Honors Agrarians with State Awards “For Love of the Fatherland”

In a grand ceremony held in Ashgabat in mid-November, more than 20 agrarians were bestowed with state awards "For Love of the Fatherland" on behalf of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov. The event, which took place on the eve of the traditional harvest festival, recognized the significant contributions these agricultural workers have made towards the development of the industry. The award ceremony was held at the Turkmen Agricultural University, which also organized an exhibition showcasing cotton, wheat, fruits, and vegetables as part of the celebratory proceedings. The exhibits served not only as a testament to the hard work and dedication of the country's farmers but also highlighted the diversity and richness of Turkmenistan's agricultural sector. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov personally congratulated the awardees, emphasizing their crucial role in ensuring the country's food security. The harvest festival is an annual tradition in Turkmenistan, celebrated on the second Sunday of November. It is a day dedicated to honoring the country's farmers and recognizing their efforts in maintaining the nation's agricultural prosperity. This event underscores the government's commitment to appreciating and uplifting the agricultural sector, which plays a vital role in the country's economy and food security.

Turkmenistan Justice Turkmenistan Life & Culture Turkmenistan Turkmenistan Opinions

Turkmenistan Observes World Day Against Human Trafficking

On July 30th, Turkmenistan observed the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, a significant event supported by public associations across the country in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM). Commemorated annually as per the UN General Assembly's resolution, this day serves as a global reminder of the grave issue of human trafficking. Under the theme, "Reach every victim of trafficking, leave no one behind," various initiatives were organized in multiple regions, emphasizing the crucial need to combat trafficking and support its victims. In Ashgabat, the Public Association Yenme orchestrated an event titled, “Stop Human Trafficking.” This gathering saw the active participation of 42 young activists and volunteers. Through interactive sessions, the attendees delved into discussions highlighting the pivotal role of safe and regulated migration in preventing human trafficking. The event incorporated educational tools such as the screening of the video, "5 Facts About Human Trafficking," and an engaging interactive game called, "Degrees of Risk." Participants received informative booklets and souvenirs to further disseminate awareness. Simultaneously, the Ynamly Egindesh Economic Society, operating a hotline in Ashgabat, conducted an awareness-raising event focusing on the multifaceted risks leading individuals into the peril of human trafficking. Emphasizing the vulnerability of various population groups to exploitation by traffickers, discussions revolved around strategies to enhance the efficacy of anti-trafficking measures. Attendees were briefed on the "Vaccination Against Stereotypes" project and society's efforts in preventing trafficking. Turkmenabat witnessed an impactful exhibition organized by the Public Association Taze Zaman. The display featured drawings and cartoons created by residents of Lebap province, educating individuals about the dangers and aftermath of irregular migration and human trafficking. Supported by the city administration, the event also distributed informational materials and products themed around combating trafficking, courtesy of IOM in Turkmenistan. According to The Exodus Road, Turkmenistan ranks among the five worst countries in the world for human trafficking.