The complete absence of basic freedoms in Turkmenistan does not mean that the country does not have a democracy movement. The civil society sector is dominated exclusively by government-approved organizations. Authentic human rights groups are unable to meet openly, speak openly and publish openly.
Turcorum Cogitans is a temporary and informal creative group of Turkmen citizens that published a report on the human rights situation in Turkmenistan in December 2025. The report covers all major aspects of repression in the country, including violations of freedom of speech, freedom of movement, access to information and the ongoing practice of enforced disappearances. The report critically assesses the role of international actors, including the EU and the EBRD.
Due to the repressive environment in Turkmenistan, which currently ranks as number 161 of 167 countries on the Economist Democracy Index, there is currently nowhere for the Turcorum Cogitans group to publish their work. At the same time, it is important that it is made available to relevant stakeholders.
The report is not authored, endorsed or independently verified by the Norwegian Helsinki Committee. While we do not assume responsibility for its content, we recognize the importance of providing a space for Turkmen civil society groups to publish their work. On this background, we are glad to host the report on our website.