Financial Crime World

Turkmenistan Struggles with Corruption

A Complex Issue

In Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, corruption remains a major issue despite efforts by the government to tackle it. Experts believe that it is difficult to see how this law could be effectively enforced.

Observing International Best Practices

In September 2014, seven Turkmen government and law-enforcement officials participated in an OSCE-organized study visit in Riga, Latvia, to observe how anti-corruption and anti-money laundering practices are implemented. This move was seen as a step towards implementing international standards in combating corruption.

Corruption Remains a Major Issue

Despite efforts to combat corruption, it remains one of the highest in the world. In 2013, Turkmenistan was ranked as one of the most corrupt countries by Transparency International.

Government Officials Sacked Over Corruption

In July 2015, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov sacked several government officials over corruption allegations. The move was seen as a step towards combating graft and improving transparency in the country’s government.

Former Interior Minister Jailed for Corruption

In December 2019, former Interior Minister Ibrahim Muhadowic Uljiev was sentenced to prison for corruption-related crimes. This case highlighted the country’s efforts to crack down on corruption at high levels.

Challenges Remain

Despite these efforts, experts say that corruption remains a major challenge in Turkmenistan. The country’s lack of transparency and accountability makes it difficult to hold officials accountable for their actions.

OSCE Helps Turkmenistan Prepare Anti-Corruption Laws

In September 2014, the OSCE helped Turkmenistan prepare anti-corruption laws. This move was seen as a step towards implementing international standards in combating corruption.

Conclusion

Turkmenistan’s struggle with corruption is a complex issue that requires sustained effort and commitment from the government and civil society. While there have been some positive steps towards combating graft, more needs to be done to create a transparent and accountable system in the country.

Sources:

  • Turkmen News Agency
  • OSCE
  • Transparency International
  • Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty