📢 Restriction of Freedom of Expression: Students and Parents in Turkmenbashi Forced to Sign Social Media Bans

📢 Restriction of Freedom of Expression: Students and Parents in Turkmenbashi Forced to Sign Social Media Bans Article by the Human Rights Platform of the Civil Movement “DAYANÇ” / Turkmenistan The Human Rights Platform of the Civil Movement “DAYANÇ” expresses serious concern regarding reports of new restrictions on freedom of expression in Turkmenistan. According to information from an independent source, students and their parents in the city of Turkmenbashi are being required to sign written commitments prohibiting the posting of photos and videos on social media. These measures are reportedly enforced under pressure and do not reflect voluntary consent. 📌 Source: Hronika Turkmenistana https://www.hronikatm.com/2026/03/in-turkmenbashi-students-and-parents-signed-agreements-prohibiting-the-posting-of-photos-on-social-media/⁠� ⚖️ Violation of Fundamental Rights Such actions raise serious concerns regarding the protection of basic human rights and freedoms. Freedom of expression, including the right to seek, receive, and impart information, is guaranteed by: Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Forcing individuals—particularly minors and their families—to sign such commitments may constitute a form of coercion and an unjustified restriction of civil liberties. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Pressure on Families and Climate of Fear It is particularly alarming that these practices target not only students but also their parents. This suggests a systemic pattern of pressure and contributes to a climate of fear in which individuals feel compelled to restrict their behavior due to potential consequences. Such measures undermine trust in the education system and contradict the principles of open and safe personal development. 📣 Position of the “DAYANÇ” Platform The Human Rights Platform of the Civil Movement “DAYANÇ” calls on the authorities to: put an end to the practice of coercive agreements restricting expression; ensure the protection of the right to freedom of expression; safeguard children and their families from pressure and intimidation; guarantee transparency in the actions of state institutions within the education system. 🌍 Appeal to the International Community We call on international human rights organizations, UN bodies, the OSCE, and other international institutions to pay attention to this situation and provide an appropriate assessment. Human rights must not be restricted under the pretext of control or security. Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of any just and democratic society.