The Universal Declaration of Human Rights: Universal Principles and Their Relevance for Turkmenistan

The Human Rights Platform of the Civic Movement “DAYANÇ / Turkmenistan” acknowledges the recent reminder by the United Nations that the Universal Declaration of Human Rights enshrines rights for all people, everywhere. Adopted in 1948, the Declaration remains a cornerstone of international human rights law. It affirms that all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. It guarantees fundamental freedoms, including freedom of expression, freedom of movement, the right to a fair trial, protection from torture and arbitrary detention, and equal protection under the law. These principles are universal. They apply without exception, regardless of political systems, national borders, or internal policies. In the context of Turkmenistan, where concerns continue to be raised regarding restrictions on freedom of expression, limited civic space, and the absence of independent judicial mechanisms, the message of the Universal Declaration is particularly significant. Human rights are not symbolic concepts. They represent real lives, real families, and real futures. Respect for human dignity and equality must go beyond formal commitments and translate into practical, systemic reforms. The Human Rights Platform “DAYANÇ / Turkmenistan” reiterates that the universality of human rights is non-negotiable. The protection of fundamental freedoms must be ensured for every citizen, without discrimination. For the full text of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, visit the official UN website: https://www.un.org/en/about-us/universal-declaration-of-human-rights�