Rising Prices and Rumors of Pension Cuts Increase Social Tension in Turkmenistan

According to Radio Azatlyk Turkmenistan, as prices for food and basic necessities continue to rise sharply, worrying discussions are spreading among citizens about the possible cancellation of pensions and social benefits. People recall that about twenty years ago the country experienced a similar situation, when many citizens — especially rural workers — lost their pension payments. These fears have intensified after social media began circulating videos showing the lives of pensioners abroad, raising many questions among Turkmen citizens. Recently, a propaganda video appeared on social networks claiming that pensions are not a state obligation and are paid only to those who contributed to a pension fund. The video was later deleted, but public concern only increased. Although such discussions are not officially acknowledged by government institutions, people are especially alarmed that pensions and benefits were not raised by the promised 10 percent without any public explanation. Furthermore, during a Halk Maslahaty session, an elder publicly stated that citizens supposedly live so well that pension increases are unnecessary. Since August of last year, many pensioners have faced delays in receiving payments, leading to long queues at ATMs. According to Radio Azatlyk, some pensions do not even reach 300 manats — about 30 US dollars — far below the subsistence level. Memories of the Niyazov era are resurfacing, when pensions were similarly taken away and people were silenced through repression and fear. Today, however, citizens say they are more informed and no longer willing to remain silent. Amid reports that the daughter of the former president and the sister of the current president are being prepared as a future leader, public distrust continues to grow. Many believe that any reforms will remain merely symbolic. Radio Azatlyk also reminds that after Niyazov’s death, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow restored pensions — a move that once pleased the population. Today, such actions no longer bring hope. The position of the Human Rights Platform “DAYANÇ” is clear: citizens must not be used as tools in political games. The people of Turkmenistan deserve dignified pensions, benefits, and wages. Despite being one of the world’s leading gas and oil producers, Turkmenistan’s wealth remains concentrated within a ruling clan, while the population struggles in poverty. The policies of the Berdimuhamedow family are driving the country toward social and economic collapse.