On 28–29 April 2026, a seminar entitled ‘Identifying victims of human trafficking: strengthening national security through a multidisciplinary approach’ was held in Ashgabat, organised by the OSCE. This was reported by AsmanNews.

The event was hosted by the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat. Its aim was to present the practices of participating States in identifying victims of human trafficking and providing them with assistance.

Experts from the Office of the OSCE Special Representative and Coordinator on Combating Trafficking in Human Beings spoke about indicators of such crimes and methods for profiling victims and offenders. The OSCE’s international obligations and the experience of countries in the region were also examined. Particular attention was paid to legislation and measures for the long-term support of victims.

William Leaf, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat, stated that Turkmenistan is participating in international efforts to combat human trafficking. According to him, the seminar aims to develop an approach that takes into account the social and psychological aspects of working with victims.

Participants discussed the importance of addressing the post-traumatic condition of victims and the need for inter-agency cooperation in identifying them.

The seminar was attended by representatives of the General Prosecutor’s Office of Turkmenistan, the Ministry of Justice, law enforcement agencies, the Ombudsman’s Office, the Bar Association and civil society organisations.