Regular Meeting of the Interdepartmental Commission Held

On February 14, a regular meeting of the Interdepartmental Commission on the Implementation of Turkmenistan's International Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law Obligations was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The meeting was attended by representatives from the Mejlis, ministries, departments, and public organizations of the country.

The agenda included a discussion on the results of the work carried out by the Interdepartmental Commission in 2024 and the identification of prospective tasks for the current year, which has been designated as the International Year of Peace and Trust.

It was noted that during the reporting period, a comprehensive set of programmatic activities aimed at strengthening statehood, democratizing society, and improving the country’s legal framework was carried out. The modernization of the legal system and the practical implementation of Turkmenistan’s international obligations in the field of human rights and freedoms, as well as the development of relevant national programs and action plans, are among the main priorities of the Interdepartmental Commission's activities. In this context, it was emphasized that cooperation with reputable international organizations, primarily UN structures, is gaining a broader and more effective format.

The meeting discussed the priority areas of work for the Commission, government agencies, and public associations in the field of human rights and international humanitarian law implementation, based on the tasks set by President Serdar Berdimuhamedov at the expanded Cabinet of Ministers meeting on February 7, 2025.

As per the agenda, information was presented on the progress of the “2024–2028 Action Plan for the Implementation of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) in Turkmenistan.” It was emphasized that international humanitarian law plays an important role in the modern era, with particular attention given to the protection of human rights and guarantees for the rights of children. In this context, the issue of expanding cooperation between Turkmenistan and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies was discussed.

Based on the noble principles of humanism inherent in the Turkmen people and the accumulated experience of cooperation in the field of international humanitarian law, the meeting participants discussed tasks for improving universally recognized and national legal mechanisms for implementing IHL norms.

The President of Turkmenistan’s Program for the Socio-Economic Development of the Country in 2022–2028 defines priority areas for the development of human capital as a key factor in ensuring human rights and the development of civil society. In this regard, the meeting heard information from the Human Rights Commissioner (Ombudsman) of Turkmenistan on the accreditation in the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions and the results of efforts to strengthen the Ombudsman’s Office.

Key areas of activity for the Interdepartmental Commission also include monitoring existing laws, developing relevant recommendations, and enhancing the legal culture of the population. In this context, special emphasis was placed on the significance of regularly held seminars, working meetings, and consultations on preparing national reports and reviews in line with the provisions of UN international documents, as well as studying best practices in the field of human rights protection.

Particular attention was given to the implementation of the Global Agenda for Sustainable Development until 2030, with its 17 Goals officially adopted and adapted to Turkmenistan’s national plans and socio-economic development strategies, including in the field of protecting human rights and legitimate interests.

It was noted in speeches that the tasks outlined in the Interdepartmental Commission's work plan are aimed at increasing cooperation in the field of human rights between executive bodies, local self-government bodies, and public organizations in Turkmenistan, in cooperation with the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), UN Development Programme (UNDP), UN Population Fund (UNFPA), UNICEF, the EU Delegation in Turkmenistan, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), and other international organizations.

The meeting also addressed other important issues related to human rights and humanitarian law, with corresponding decisions being adopted.

Source: State News Agency of Turkmenistan