Policy
Women as a Spiritual Force of Society and a Strategic Resource for Development
09.03.2026In the contemporary era, the question of women’s place in society has ceased to be viewed solely as a social issue and has evolved into a significant component of strategic development, public governance, and international cooperation. Within the global political landscape, gender equality is recognized as one of the key prerequisites for economic growth, social stability, and sustainable peace. For this reason, recent years have witnessed a growing number of conferences, forums, and international dialogue platforms across various countries aimed at expanding opportunities for women. The international events held in Turkmenistan in 2025 – particularly the forums organized in Awaza – became a national reflection of this global trend. The issue of women’s rights and opportunities today is largely shaped by economic factors. According to data from the United Nations, increasing women’s economic participation has a direct impact on the growth of gross domestic product. Academic research confirms that in the absence of gender equality, economic potential remains underutilized. The Sustainable Development Goals adopted by the United Nations in 2015 included gender equality as a standalone objective (SDG 5). However, this goal is closely interconnected with other priorities, such as poverty reduction, quality education, healthcare, economic growth, and strong institutions. The achievement of these objectives is impossible without the active participation of women. Observed annually on March 8, International Women’s Day, supported by the United Nations, serves not only as a symbolic celebration but also as a platform for reporting and strategic planning. In addition, the annual sessions of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) held in New York provide states with an opportunity to assess gender policies and adopt new commitments. The work of these international structures demonstrates that the women’s agenda is not an ideological or narrowly social issue, but rather an indicator of a state’s development capacity. In Turkmenistan’s public policy, the role of women is developed in harmony with national values. A distinctive feature of this model is that gender equality is not viewed in opposition to traditions, but rather as a process grounded in them. The International Forum ‘From Commitment to Change: Women Driving the Awaza Programme of Action,’ held in August 2025 in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone, was not merely an official event but a manifestation of the state’s strategic priorities. The discussions focused extensively on women’s economic opportunities, healthcare development, youth upbringing, and civic engagement. The events held on December 10 in Awaza further confirmed the systemic nature of this agenda. The International Conference titled ‘The Role of Women in Modern Society: Promoting International Cooperation for Sustainable Development,’ concluded with the adoption of a Final Declaration reaffirming commitment to the UN Charter, the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The document particularly emphasized the strategic role of women in social and economic development and in ensuring a sustainable future. Special attention was devoted to expanding women’s participation in public administration and civil society, developing their leadership potential, and strengthening the role of women’s organizations. The Declaration also highlighted women’s economic empowerment, support for entrepreneurship, the reduction of the digital gender gap, and ensuring equal access for girls and women to quality education and healthcare. It underscored women’s contributions to science, culture, ecology, and the fight against climate change, as well as their importance in the development of human capital. The need to expand international cooperation, exchange best practices, and create new dialogue platforms was also emphasized. The regular organization of such forums throughout the year demonstrates that this work is systemic rather than episodic. In 2024–2025, in cooperation with UN country offices, a number of projects were implemented to expand women’s economic opportunities, develop small businesses, and increase the participation of young girls in STEM fields. In this context, the advisory and analytical support provided by UN Women was of particular significance. The growing attention to women’s role at the state level is not accidental but represents a strategic necessity shaped by a complex set of systemic factors. First and foremost, this trend is directly linked to demographic characteristics. Women constitute a significant portion of the young population, and limiting their educational and professional opportunities may lead not only to social inequality but also to the underutilization of human capital. In a context where human capital is recognized as a key driver of modern development, restricting the potential of half the population hampers the full realization of a country’s intellectual, economic, and innovative capacity. Therefore, expanding women’s opportunities is not only a matter of social justice but also a crucial condition for a long-term development strategy. The economic factor is equally important. International studies confirm that increasing women’s participation in managerial and leadership positions positively influences the quality of decision-making. Diversity of professional and social experience contributes to more comprehensive strategic planning, more accurate risk assessment, and the development of effective solutions. In an era marked by economic diversification, technological innovation, and enhanced competitiveness, the inclusion of diverse perspectives becomes an essential condition for sustainable growth. In this regard, expanding women’s economic activity should be viewed as a rational step aimed at increasing overall efficiency. A third factor relates to international image and foreign policy dimensions. The level of gender equality development is included in various international rankings and analytical reports as an important indicator of a country’s progress. This criterion reflects not only the state of domestic social policy but also a country’s commitment to international obligations and modern development standards. Consequently, the gender agenda has become an important element of foreign policy positioning. From the perspective of sociological theory, the role of women in society passes through three stages: traditional, transitional, and transformational. Today, many countries are in the transformational stage, where women are perceived not only as guardians of the family institution but also as full participants in economic and political life. The Turkmen model seeks to harmonize transformational processes with national characteristics. Women retain their status as custodians of family values while simultaneously acting as active agents of social development. Such a dual model contributes to ensuring social stability. Today, the strategic role of women in social development is viewed not merely as an issue of equal opportunity but as a fundamental condition for long-term national development and international authority. The digital economy, ‘green’ growth, and the transformation of the education system all require the participation of highly qualified and active women. Therefore, the systemic measures undertaken in this direction demonstrate the modern and comprehensive nature of Turkmenistan’s development strategy.
The Mejlis of Turkmenistan strengthens interparliamentary ties with Belgium
09.03.2026On 6 March, in Brussels, as part of the 9th meeting of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan with the European Parliament, a meeting was held between the interparliamentary friendship groups of Turkmenistan and Belgium. This was reported by the press service of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan. During the meeting, the main directions of Turkmenistan's foreign policy, based on the principles of positive neutrality, peacefulness, trust, equality and humanism, were presented, as well as information on the structure of the national parliament and the work being done to provide legislative support for large-scale socio-economic reforms being implemented in various areas. During the exchange of views on the prospects for bilateral cooperation, it was noted that there is significant potential for expanding effective relations in the political-diplomatic, trade-economic and cultural-humanitarian spheres. The importance of interparliamentary cooperation in the development of intergovernmental cooperation was also emphasised, and it was noted that interparliamentary friendship groups established on a bilateral basis play a significant role in increasing its effectiveness. In addition, it was emphasised that inter-parliamentary friendship groups contribute to the exchange of experience in legislative activities between the two countries, familiarisation with opportunities for cooperation in various fields, and the strengthening of friendly relations between the peoples.
A delegation from the Mejlis of Turkmenistan held interparliamentary talks in Brussels
09.03.2026A meeting between a delegation from the Mejlis of Turkmenistan and Belgian parliamentarians took place in Brussels. The negotiations were led by Belgian Senator and Member of the Flemish Parliament Stephanie D'Hose, who previously served as President of the Senate. This was reported by IIC. The Turkmen delegation was led by Maksat Kulyev, Chairman of the Committee of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan on International and Interparliamentary Relations. It included deputies of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan. During the meeting, the parties discussed the development of interparliamentary cooperation. The Turkmen delegation emphasised the role of parliamentary diplomacy in strengthening bilateral relations and presented information on socio-economic reforms in Turkmenistan, the activities of the Mejlis and the country's priorities in the areas of sustainable development, digitalisation, industry, ecology and international cooperation. Turkmenistan's interest in expanding interparliamentary and trade and economic ties with European partners was also noted. Belgian parliamentarians expressed interest in issues of Turkmenistan's economic development, key sectors of the economy and prospects for bilateral cooperation. They supported the strengthening of trade relations between Belgium and Turkmenistan and spoke in favour of developing direct contacts between the business communities of the two countries. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness to continue interparliamentary dialogue. The Belgian parliamentary delegation received an invitation to visit Turkmenistan for the next round of consultations.
The Foreign Affairs Ministers of Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan held a telephone conversation
07.03.2026On 7 March, a telephone conversation took place between Rashid Meredov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, and Jeyhun Bayramov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the situation in the Middle East, emphasising that international disputes should be resolved exclusively by peaceful and diplomatic means based on international law. The interlocutors also exchanged views on humanitarian issues in the region.
The Mejlis of Turkmenistan continues to work on improving legislation
07.03.2026On 6 March, during a meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers, the Chairwoman of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, Dunyagozel Gulmanova, reported on the activities of the parliament for January–February of this year. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. It was reported that work is continuing on amendments and additions to a number of regulatory acts, including the Code of Administrative Offences, the Criminal and Criminal Procedure Codes, as well as laws on migration, fisheries, licensing of certain types of activities and accounting. It was noted that in the run-up to the elections of members of the Halk Maslahaty, scheduled for 29 March, electoral districts are being provided with organisational and methodological assistance and explanatory work is being carried out on issues of electoral legislation. In addition, during this period, the credentials of the Ambassadors of Chad and Indonesia were accepted, and five meetings were held with representatives of parliaments and diplomatic missions of foreign states. Deputies and specialists of the Mejlis took part in 14 specialised seminars and made three official trips abroad to study international experience. After hearing the information, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasised the need to further improve national legislation.
The 9th interparliamentary meeting between Turkmenistan and the European Parliament was held in Brussels
07.03.2026On 5 March, the 9th interparliamentary meeting between representatives of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan and the European Parliament took place in Brussels. This was reported by the press service of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan. During the negotiations, the Turkmen delegation presented the main directions of the country's foreign policy, based on the principles of peacefulness, humanism and an ‘open door’ policy, and also spoke about the current legislative activities of the national parliament. The parties noted the active participation of the Mejlis in the work of the Inter-Parliamentary Union and the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly. It was emphasised that there are 15 inter-parliamentary friendship groups with the legislative bodies of the European Union states operating in the Turkmenistan parliament, and that cooperation between relevant committees is developing. Particular attention was paid to Turkmenistan's geo-economic position at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, which creates significant potential for expanding political, diplomatic, trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian cooperation between the regions. The meeting participants also noted the results of the 24th meeting of the ‘Turkmenistan-European Union’ Joint Committee, held in Ashgabat in November 2025. The meeting discussed issues related to the development of trade relations, the modernisation and digitalisation of transport infrastructure, cooperation in the energy sector, environmental protection, and the implementation of humanitarian and educational projects. In addition, joint initiatives to modernise the education system in Turkmenistan, introduce digital technologies into the educational process, and train qualified specialists were positively assessed.
In Turkmenistan, the public holiday on 8 March has been moved to 9 March
07.03.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has signed a Decree postponing the public holiday in connection with the celebration of International Women's Day. This was reported by AsmanNews. According to the document, the public holiday on 8 March will be moved to 9 March 2026, which is a Monday. The decision was made in order to create favourable conditions for festive events and recreation for the population. The Decree also requires all institutions, enterprises and organisations, regardless of their form of ownership, to ensure its implementation.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov approved the strategy for the development of scientific and medical diplomacy
07.03.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has signed a Decree aimed at developing medical science and strengthening international cooperation in this field. This was reported by TDH. The document approves the ‘National Strategy for the Development of Scientific and Medical Diplomacy in Turkmenistan for 2026-2052’, as well as the Action Plan for its implementation for 2026-2030. According to the Decree, the relevant ministries and sectoral agencies, as well as the hakimliks of the velayats and cities of Ashgabat and Arkadag, are instructed to ensure the implementation of the measures provided for in the plan. The adoption of the strategy is aimed at the comprehensive development of medical science and the expansion of international cooperation in the field of healthcare.
The President of Turkmenistan noted the role of women in the country's development
07.03.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, congratulated the women of the country on International Women's Day, noting their contribution to the development of society, the preservation of national traditions and the upbringing of the younger generation. This was reported by AsmanNews. In his address, the Head of State emphasised that the holiday, celebrated at the beginning of spring, is accompanied by solemn events throughout the country and is intended to express respect and gratitude to mothers, women and girls. According to the President, conditions are being created in Turkmenistan for the active participation of women in public and professional life. They work in the state administration system, science, education, healthcare, culture, industry, agriculture, transport and other areas, making a significant contribution to the socio-economic development of the country. The role of women in preserving and developing national crafts, including carpet weaving, embroidery and traditional handicrafts, which are passed down from generation to generation, was highlighted separately. In honour of International Women's Day, cash gifts were presented in a solemn atmosphere to women working in various institutions and organisations, as well as to students, schoolgirls and kindergarten pupils. Mothers of large families were awarded the honorary title of ‘Ene mähri’ for their contribution to the upbringing of the younger generation. The Head of State also noted that the country pays great attention to strengthening the institution of the family, raising educated and patriotic youth, and developing the healthcare and education systems. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov wished women good health, prosperity and further success.
The Mejlis of Turkmenistan held an online meeting with Pakistani parliamentarians
06.03.2026On 5 March, the Mejlis of Turkmenistan held a video conference with female parliamentarians from the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. This was reported by the online news resource TerraNews. During the meeting, the parties presented the priorities of Turkmenistan's domestic and foreign policy, and discussed the activities of the national parliament and cooperation with international organisations, including the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly and the Inter-Parliamentary Union. The participants emphasised the importance of inter-parliamentary dialogue for strengthening bilateral relations. It was noted that the creation of parliamentary friendship groups contributes to the exchange of legislative experience and the development of parliamentary diplomacy. Pakistani MPs drew attention to the high level of representation of women in the Mejlis of Turkmenistan and the role of young women in the system of public administration. Issues related to the promotion of gender equality and the protection of women's rights were also discussed. It was noted that Turkmenistan is implementing national action plans in the field of human rights, gender equality and the protection of children's rights in cooperation with the UN. Following the meeting, the parties agreed to maintain regular contacts between young and female parliamentarians to further develop cooperation.
Moscow discusses development of strategic partnership between Turkmenistan and Russia
06.03.2026On 5 March, Esen Aydogdyev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the Russian Federation, held a meeting in Moscow with Konstantin Kosachev, Deputy Speaker of the Federation Council. This was reported by the Orient news agency. The main topic of the talks was the development of strategic partnership between the two countries and the implementation of Turkmenistan's programme for its chairmanship of the CIS in 2026. The parties emphasised the important role of inter-parliamentary dialogue in strengthening relations between states. Particular attention was paid to the international agenda and Ashgabat's initiatives within the framework of its chairmanship of the Commonwealth. K. Kosachev highly appreciated the concept of the chairmanship prepared by Turkmenistan, noting its substance and expressing Russia's readiness to support the proposed initiatives, including at the CIS Interparliamentary Assembly. The interlocutors also noted the steady development of bilateral cooperation, which covers the economic, political and humanitarian spheres.
Turkmenistan prepares international events and major projects for 2026
06.03.2026The year 2026 in Turkmenistan is marked by the slogan ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’. It marks the 35th anniversary of the country's independence and continues the tradition of annually determining the symbol of the year and the priority areas of the state's development, according to TDH. Under the leadership of the President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov, large-scale socio-economic programmes are being implemented in the country, aimed at strengthening the national economy and improving the standard of living of the population. As noted at the expanded meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers on 13 February, a significant amount of work is planned to be carried out as part of the ‘Programme of Socio-Economic Development of Turkmenistan and Investments in 2026’. This year, the construction and commissioning of numerous social and industrial facilities is planned in Ashgabat and the velayats. These include modern residential buildings, educational institutions, shopping centres and other infrastructure facilities. In the capital, it is planned to open an International Paediatrics Centre, an International Scientific and Clinical Oncology Centre and a Dental Centre. A new 400-bed medical and health complex is planned to be commissioned at the ‘Archman’ sanatorium. The completion of the ‘Mary-Turkmenabat’ section of the ‘Ashgabat-Turkmenabat’ high-speed motorway, as well as a number of energy and infrastructure facilities, is also planned. Significant investments will be directed towards the modernisation of transport, communications and engineering infrastructure, including the construction of roads, the development of communications systems, and water, gas and energy supply facilities. The year 2026 will also be filled with international events. Turkmenistan will chair the Commonwealth of Independent States and will host a Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia and Azerbaijan. Special attention will be paid throughout the year to the development of horse breeding and the promotion of Ahal-Teke horses, which are a national treasure. International competitions, horse marathons, exhibitions, scientific conferences and cultural events are planned. Key events include the 16th meeting of the International Ahal-Teke Horse Breeding Association, the 18th International Scientific Conference ‘Türkmen bedewi we dünýäniň seýisçilik sungaty’ (‘Turkmen Horses and the World Art of Horse Breeding’) and the ‘Ýylyň iň owadan ahalteke bedewi’ (‘The Most Beautiful Ahal-Teke Horse of the Year’) competition. As part of the celebrations of the 35th anniversary of independence, there are also plans to hold the Amul-Hazar horse race, in which 35 riders on Ahal-Teke horses from different regions of the country will take part. Turkmen horse breeders and athletes are also scheduled to participate in a number of international events, including prestigious equestrian tournaments and exhibitions. The ‘Galkynysh’ National Equestrian Games Group will continue its international tour, whose performances at the world's largest circus venues contribute to the popularisation of the cultural heritage and traditions of Turkmen horse breeding. The planned events are intended to further strengthen international cooperation, develop cultural and sports diplomacy, and promote the historical and cultural heritage of the Turkmen people.
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