According to information published by Radio Azatlyk, including video testimonies and interviews with citizens of Turkmenistan, Turkmen citizens are becoming involved in the war against Ukraine as a result of economic vulnerability, legal uncertainty, and lack of effective protection from their own state. Source: Radio Azatlyk (Azatlyk Radiosy) Radio Azatlyk YouTube channel Publication date: February 2026 Link: https://youtu.be/Xh_AAp73dRo� Economic hardship as a root cause Many citizens of Turkmenistan leave the country due to severe economic conditions. The main reasons include lack of stable employment, low wages, and the inability to meet basic needs, including medical treatment for family members. In search of income, citizens travel abroad but often find themselves in vulnerable situations, especially after their visas or documents expire. Economic instability and lack of prospects inside the country create conditions in which people are forced to seek any means of survival. Lack of valid passports as a factor of legal vulnerability One of the key factors increasing the vulnerability of Turkmen citizens abroad is the expiration of their international passports and the difficulties associated with obtaining or renewing them through diplomatic missions. As a result, citizens may find themselves: without valid documents; unable to work legally; unable to regularize their legal status; at risk of detention or deportation. This creates a situation of legal uncertainty in which individuals are effectively left without protection. According to testimonies published by Radio Azatlyk, the lack of valid documents and inability to legalize their status becomes one of the factors pushing individuals to sign military contracts. Promise of Russian citizenship as a recruitment factor According to available testimonies, Turkmen citizens are offered Russian citizenship in exchange for participation in military activities. For individuals without documents, without legal status, and without the possibility of safely returning home, this is perceived as an opportunity to: legalize their status; obtain documents; avoid deportation; provide financial support for their families. Under such circumstances, this decision is often made under pressure rather than as a free and informed choice. Criminal liability under Turkmen law According to the legislation of Turkmenistan, participation of its citizens in armed conflicts on the territory of another state may result in criminal liability. This means that citizens of Turkmenistan involved in foreign armed conflicts may face serious legal consequences, including criminal prosecution and imprisonment. Despite these risks, there are no publicly known information campaigns warning citizens about these legal consequences. Absence of public position and protection To date, Turkmen authorities have not issued detailed public statements explaining the risks associated with participation in foreign armed conflicts. There is also no publicly available information about measures aimed at preventing recruitment or protecting vulnerable citizens abroad. The absence of clear official communication increases citizens’ vulnerability and limits their ability to make fully informed decisions. Humanitarian consequences According to published testimonies, citizens of Turkmenistan are already among those involved in hostilities, with some reportedly captured or killed. Their families are often left without full information or support. This creates a serious humanitarian concern affecting both individuals and their families. Conclusion The testimonies published by Radio Azatlyk indicate the existence of systemic factors increasing the vulnerability of Turkmen citizens abroad. These include: economic hardship; lack of valid documents; legal uncertainty; and insufficient state protection. The Human Rights Platform of the Civil Movement “DAYANÇ / Turkmenistan” emphasizes the importance of informing citizens about legal risks and ensuring the protection of their rights, safety, and human dignity.
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