Turkmenistan: Rights Groups Demand Release of Imprisoned Activist murat Dushemov
Human Rights Watch is urging Turkmenistan to immediately release Murat Dushemov,an activist who was arbitrarily jailed after criticizing the government.Dushemov, initially imprisoned in 2021, faces extended detention on what rights groups believe are fabricated charges. His case highlights the ongoing repression of free speech in Turkmenistan, a nation with a troubling human rights record.
Dushemov’s Imprisonment and New Charges
Murat Dushemov’s ordeal began in 2021 when he was arrested following his criticism of the Turkmen government’s policies, notably its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. He questioned the official narrative, which downplayed the virus’s presence in the country, and demanded access to accurate information. Dushemov was scheduled for release on June 14, 2025, after serving his sentence in a prison colony in Seydi, Lebap province.
however, just days before his expected release, on June 10, authorities transferred him to a pretrial detention facility in turkmenabat, also known as Abdy Shukur prison. According to Rachel Denber, deputy Europe and Central Asia director at Human Rights Watch, “Dushemov has already suffered a terrible miscarriage of justice due to his peaceful activism.”
Did You Know? Turkmenistan consistently ranks among the world’s most closed and repressive countries, according to reports from organizations like Freedom House.
On June 18, 2025, Turkmen.news reported that Dushemov’s whereabouts were unknown, and he might face new charges. Thes charges stem from an allegation by another prisoner claiming Dushemov broke his arm. Human Rights Watch suggests these charges are fabricated, a tactic reportedly used by Turkmen authorities to extend prison sentences.
Turkmenistan’s Human Rights record
Turkmenistan’s government has a history of suppressing dissent and unlawfully imprisoning individuals for exercising their right to free speech. Prison conditions are abysmal, and ill-treatment and torture are serious concerns. Enforced disappearances remain a notable issue, with dozens of individuals still missing.
In 2023, the U.S. State Department reported significant human rights issues in Turkmenistan, including arbitrary arrest and detention, torture, and restrictions on freedom of expression and the press U.S. State Department.
The government’s actions against Dushemov are not isolated. Other activists and journalists have faced similar persecution, including:
- Mansur Mingelov: Imprisoned as 2012 on bogus narcotics charges after speaking out about police beatings.
- Prophet Salaberdyv: A lawyer sentenced to six years in prison in 2020 on false allegations,and still subject to a travel ban despite being pardoned.
- Nurgeldi Khalykov: A Turkmen.news stringer barred from leaving Turkmenistan after completing a four-year prison term on fabricated fraud charges.
Soltan Achilova, an activist and independent journalist, has also faced repeated harassment, including being forcibly hospitalized and having her passport deliberately damaged to prevent her from traveling.
International Response and Calls for Action
The United Nations Human Rights Commitee has expressed deep concern about the persecution of civil society representatives in Turkmenistan and called for the release of Dushemov and mingelov. In May 2023, Dushemov and other prisoners wrote to the UN office in Turkmenistan, stating their cases were fabricated and their rights were being violated.
Human Rights Watch urges Turkmenistan’s international partners to pressure the government to end dushemov’s detention and release others imprisoned for exercising their right to freedom of expression. They also call for an end to the persecution of individuals through arbitrary travel bans and other retaliatory measures.
Pro Tip: Supporting organizations like Human Rights Watch and amnesty International can help amplify the call for justice in cases like Murat Dushemov’s.
The situation in Turkmenistan remains dire, with the government continuing to suppress dissent and violate basic human rights. The international community’s attention and action are crucial to improving the human rights landscape in the country.
Key Events in Murat Dushemov’s Case
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 2021 | Dushemov jailed for criticizing the government’s COVID-19 response. |
| June 10, 2025 | Transferred to pretrial detention facility days before scheduled release. |
| june 18, 2025 | Reported to be facing new charges based on a dubious allegation. |
“Turkmenistan should free Dushemov and stop using the justice system to punish peaceful dissent,” Denber said. “We are witnessing yet again that rather then rectify an injustice, the government is doubling down on its wholesale disregard for rights and the rule of law, and other governments should not ignore it.”
What steps can individuals take to support human rights in Turkmenistan? How can international organizations increase their impact on the ground?
Evergreen Insights: Turkmenistan’s Repressive Climate
Turkmenistan’s political system is characterized by authoritarian rule, with the president holding virtually unchecked power.The country has never held free and fair elections, and political opposition is severely restricted. the government maintains tight control over all aspects of society,including the media,internet,and religious organizations.
Independent journalists and human rights activists face constant harassment, intimidation, and persecution. Many have been imprisoned on fabricated charges, subjected to torture and ill-treatment, or forced into exile. The government also imposes strict travel restrictions on its citizens, preventing them from leaving the country to seek medical treatment, education, or employment.
The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated the human rights situation in Turkmenistan. The government denied the presence of the virus in the country for months, while concurrently imposing strict lockdowns and restrictions on movement. This lack of clarity and access to information undermined public health efforts and fueled distrust in the government.
frequently Asked Questions About Human Rights in turkmenistan
- What are the main human rights issues in turkmenistan?
- Key issues include restrictions on freedom of expression, arbitrary arrest and detention, torture and ill-treatment in prisons, enforced disappearances, and restrictions on freedom of movement.
- How does the Turkmen government restrict freedom of expression?
- The government controls the media and internet, and punishes individuals who criticize the government or express dissenting views. Independent journalists and activists face harassment, intimidation, and imprisonment.
- What are the conditions like in Turkmen prisons?
- Prison conditions are reportedly abysmal, with overcrowding, inadequate medical care, and widespread ill-treatment and torture. Political prisoners are frequently enough subjected to particularly harsh treatment.
- What is the international community doing to address human rights abuses in Turkmenistan?
- International organizations like the UN, Human Rights Watch, and Amnesty International monitor the human rights situation in Turkmenistan and advocate for reforms. Some countries have imposed sanctions on Turkmen officials responsible for human rights abuses.
- How can I support human rights in Turkmenistan?
- You can support human rights by raising awareness about the situation,contacting your elected officials to urge them to take action,and donating to organizations that work to protect human rights in Turkmenistan.
Disclaimer: This article provides information about human rights issues in Turkmenistan and does not constitute legal or financial advice.Consult with a qualified professional for specific guidance.
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