Bloggers in Turkmenistan Are Being Forced to Record Videos Against Activists Article by the Human Rights Platform of the Civil Movement “DAYANÇ / Turkmenistan” According to Radio Azatlyk Turkmenistan, in recent days cases of pressure on bloggers and social media users have been reported inside the country. Representatives of the security services are demanding that bloggers record and publish videos criticizing Turkmen civil activists and human rights defenders living abroad. 📺 Video report by Radio Azatlyk: https://youtu.be/Xh_AAp73dRo?si=O3-n5UVtIMoCuR6b� It is important to emphasize that there are no political bloggers inside Turkmenistan, as independent political activity and open civic expression online are effectively prohibited. All bloggers within the country produce neutral content related to everyday life, culture, entertainment, or personal topics. Despite this, these bloggers are now becoming targets of pressure. According to Radio Azatlyk sources, bloggers are summoned by representatives of the security services and instructed to record videos against civil activists. These videos are then used to discredit activists living outside Turkmenistan. Particularly concerning is the fact that refusal is treated as disloyalty. When bloggers explain that their content is not related to politics or social criticism, officials reportedly respond that such a refusal indicates support for activists. In one reported case, a blogger was warned that refusal could result in criminal prosecution. To avoid arrest and imprisonment, the blogger was forced to pay a bribe. According to available information, the bribe amounted to 2,000 US dollars. After the payment, the blogger was allowed to avoid further prosecution. These actions constitute serious violations of fundamental human rights, including: — freedom of expression; — freedom from coercion; — the right to personal security; — protection from corruption and extortion. These cases also demonstrate attempts to use bloggers as instruments of pressure and information control against civil activists living abroad. The Human Rights Platform of the Civil Movement “DAYANÇ / Turkmenistan” expresses serious concern about the reported cases of pressure, threats, and extortion against bloggers. Such actions contradict Turkmenistan’s international obligations, including: — Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; — Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Freedom of expression must not be subject to coercion, threats, or corruption. We call on the international community, human rights organizations, and international institutions to pay close attention to these developments and provide an appropriate response. Source: Radio Azatlyk Turkmenistan https://youtu.be/Xh_AAp73dRo?si=O3-n5UVtIMoCuR6b� Human Rights Platform of the Civil Movement “DAYANÇ / Turkmenistan” https://www.dayanchcivil.com�
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