“Life Without Violence Is a Human Right” — A Reminder from Amnesty International

The international human rights organization Amnesty International has once again reminded the world of a simple but fundamental truth: “Life without violence is a human right.” In democratic societies, this principle may seem self-evident. However, for many citizens of Turkmenistan, it remains an unfulfilled promise. The right to live free from violence is enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. It guarantees protection from torture, cruel or degrading treatment, arbitrary detention, and abuse of power. Yet numerous reports, testimonies, and communications from affected individuals indicate a different reality. In Turkmenistan, concerns continue to arise regarding: ill-treatment in places of detention; intimidation and pressure against activists and their families; forced mobilization of students and public sector workers for state events; lack of independent investigations into allegations of abuse; a climate of fear and impunity. When a state fails to protect individuals from violence, it violates not only domestic law but also its international obligations. Amnesty International’s reminder is not merely a slogan. It is a call for governments to place human dignity above political image and control. The Human Rights Platform of the Civic Movement “DAYANÇ” / Turkmenistan emphasizes: Life without violence is not a privilege. It is not a political tool. It is not negotiable. It is a right belonging to every human being. We call on the authorities of Turkmenistan to: ensure independent and transparent investigations of all allegations of violence; guarantee access to fair trial and legal protection; end practices of intimidation and coercion; uphold international human rights standards in practice, not only in declarations. Behind every reported violation stands a real human life — a person whose dignity and safety must be protected.