Turkmenistan’s Web of Nepotism and Corruption

ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan - President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov wields unparalleled power over the country’s economy, legal system, and law enforcement agencies, with nepotism and corruption permeating every level of government.

Concentration of Power

President Berdimuhamedov has complete control over the country’s economy, legal system, and law enforcement agencies. This concentration of power allows him to use his vast powers to silence dissent and reward loyalists.

Corrupted Judiciary and Law Enforcement

The judiciary is subservient to the executive, and courts are unable to effectively prosecute high-profile criminals or organized crime defendants. Law enforcement agencies are also under the president’s control, with the police and security services often used to crack down on political opponents rather than combat crime.

• Border control officials are frequently corrupted, making it easy for smugglers to operate along Turkmenistan’s porous borders.
• The government’s lack of transparency exacerbates these issues, creating a culture of bribery, embezzlement, and money laundering.

Restricted Civil Society

Civil society is severely restricted in Turkmenistan. Independent non-governmental organizations (NGOs) face numerous obstacles in operating openly. The registration system for NGOs is burdensome and punitive, effectively preventing most groups from functioning or fundraising.

• Human rights are also under attack, with the government failing to respond to human trafficking victims and ignoring efforts to prevent forced labor in the cotton harvest.
• Independent journalists who report on foreign networks are subject to intimidation, arrest, and torture, making it one of the world’s most oppressive press freedom environments.

International Isolation

Turkmenistan’s isolation from the international community has allowed these problems to persist. The country has little interest in regional or international cooperation on issues like organized crime and human trafficking. Its influence is largely shaped by its connections with Russian organized crime groups through its “thieves-in-law” network.

Conclusion

In summary, Turkmenistan is a nation where power is concentrated in the hands of President Berdimuhamedov, who uses it to maintain his grip on the economy, legal system, and law enforcement agencies. Corruption and nepotism are rampant, with little hope for reform or improvement until the country begins to open up to the outside world.