The Human Rights Platform of the Civil Movement “Dayanç” (Turkmenistan) expresses serious concern regarding recent events in the Mary and Lebap regions during the working visits of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov. According to information published by the independent outlet Azatlyk Radiosy, approximately ten people lost consciousness during mass events organized in connection with the president’s visits. Among them were students, schoolchildren, and public sector employees who were widely mobilized to participate. People were forced to remain outdoors for hours, often from early morning until midday, without access to water, food, or basic sanitary conditions. Moreover, participants were required to cover their own transportation and food expenses, indicating a systematic practice of exploiting citizens under the guise of “voluntary participation.” Eyewitnesses report that many participants were made to stand for several consecutive hours without being allowed to leave the event site. In some cases, individuals were even denied the ability to meet basic physiological needs until the “ceremony” had ended. Particularly alarming is the involvement of minors — high school students whose health was put at risk. Reports indicate that cases of fainting were recorded among students. Such actions by the authorities can only be regarded as forced labor and a violation of fundamental human rights, including: the right to health the right to fair and decent working conditions freedom from forced participation in state-organized events the right to education (in the case of students) It is also important to emphasize that these events have a clear propaganda character. While state media portray a “festive atmosphere” and “prosperity,” the reality for participants is marked by coercion, humiliation, and risks to their health. Local residents describe these actions as attempts to distract from the country’s real problems and to create an illusion of well-being. The Human Rights Platform “Dayanç” calls on the international community to pay attention to: the systematic coercion of citizens to participate in mass events the exploitation of students and public sector employees without compensation threats to people’s life and health the concealment of the real situation by state authorities We also call for an independent investigation into these incidents and for accountability for those responsible for organizing such practices. In the modern world, such practices are unacceptable and contradict fundamental international human rights standards. SOURCE: Azatlyk Radiosy https://www.azattyk.org� IMAGE SOURCE: tdh.gov.tm (Courtesy Image) — as indicated in the Azatlyk Radiosy material
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