STATEMENT Human Rights Platform of the Civil Movement “Dayanç Turkmenistan” The Ukrainian state project “I Want to Live”, responding to an inquiry from the channel “Ukraine – Central Asia,” published a detailed position outlining what steps Central Asian states should take to prevent the recruitment of their citizens for Russia’s war against Ukraine. In its publication, the project identified four key measures that responsible states should implement: 1. Direct Diplomatic Pressure on the Russian Federation States should officially and publicly demand an end to the recruitment of their citizens for participation in the war. 2. Criminal Prosecution of Recruiters Authorities should identify and prosecute individuals and structures involved in recruiting citizens on the territory of the respective states. 3. Criminal Prosecution of Participants in the War States should apply national legislation to citizens who join foreign armed formations. 4. Broad Public Awareness Campaigns About the Risks Particularly targeting labor migrants and other vulnerable citizens residing abroad. The “I Want to Live” project also noted that Central Asian states are responding differently to this issue: Kazakhstan — actively investigates cases involving citizens participating in the war; hundreds of criminal cases have been opened, with detentions and court proceedings underway; Kyrgyzstan — individuals suspected of recruitment have been detained, including persons associated with relevant structures; Uzbekistan — has officially warned its citizens of criminal liability for participation in foreign armed conflicts; Tajikistan — has not yet demonstrated systematic or active measures; Turkmenistan — after reports emerged regarding alleged participation of its citizens in the war, limited its response to a promise to “verify the information.” Position of the Human Rights Platform “Dayanç Turkmenistan” We consider the response of the authorities of Turkmenistan to be insufficient, passive, and grossly inadequate in light of the seriousness of the threat. We once again openly state: Russia’s war against Ukraine is a criminal act of aggression that violates the territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence of Ukraine. The participation of citizens of Turkmenistan in this war is unacceptable and requires a clear legal and political assessment by the state. We Once Again Demand That the Authorities of Turkmenistan: Publicly Condemn the Recruitment of Turkmen Citizens for the War And issue an official statement declaring the involvement of citizens of Turkmenistan in the war against Ukraine unacceptable. Deliver a Diplomatic Note of Protest to the Russian Federation Demanding the cessation of all attempts to recruit citizens of Turkmenistan into the armed conflict. Officially Warn Citizens of Criminal Liability By publicly clarifying the legal consequences of participating in foreign armed conflicts and serving in foreign armed forces. Ensure the Issuance of Passports to Citizens of Turkmenistan Abroad In full compliance with: The Constitution of Turkmenistan Turkmenistan’s international obligations International law Article 29(3) of the Law of Turkmenistan “On Migration” Repeal Article 30(9) of the Law of Turkmenistan “On Migration” As a provision contrary to international standards of freedom of movement, family unity, and human rights. Establish Real Mechanisms of Support for Citizens Abroad Including: consular assistance; legal protection; emergency support; information assistance; mechanisms to respond to threats of recruitment and exploitation. The State Itself Increases Citizens’ Vulnerability We emphasize: The systematic refusal to issue and renew passports for citizens of Turkmenistan abroad, despite the direct requirement of the law, places thousands of people in an extremely vulnerable position. People without documents: lose legal status; lose the ability to work lawfully; become dependent on intermediaries and illegal schemes; face increased risks of exploitation, human trafficking, and recruitment into armed formations. Thus, the state’s failure to fulfill its own obligations directly contributes to the growing threats faced by Turkmen citizens abroad. Appeal to Citizens of Turkmenistan We strongly warn: Participation in the war against Ukraine may lead to: death; severe injuries and permanent disability; criminal prosecution; international legal consequences; grave consequences for your family and future. If You Have Already Been Drawn Into the War or Targeted for Recruitment We call on citizens of Turkmenistan who are already at the front, were deceived into joining the armed conflict, or signed contracts under pressure not to wait for death and not to risk their lives unnecessarily. The Ukrainian state project “I Want to Live” provides an opportunity to safely leave the war and preserve one’s life by surrendering in accordance with international humanitarian law. Contact the Project Through: Official Chatbot: t.me/kak_sdatsya_bot Telegram / WhatsApp / Telephone: +38 095 688 68 88 +38 093 688 68 88 +38 097 688 66 88 Representatives of the project provide guidance and assist applicants in arranging the safest possible exit from combat zones. Conclusion The Human Rights Platform of the Civil Movement “Dayanç Turkmenistan” emphasizes: A responsible state must not remain silent—it must protect its citizens. The silence of the authorities of Turkmenistan regarding the recruitment of its citizens for war, combined with the systematic deprivation of documents and consular protection, creates conditions in which people become defenseless against exploitation and mortal danger. We demand immediate, public, and concrete action from the authorities of Turkmenistan. Source: “I Want to Live” Project / “Ukraine – Central Asia” https://t.me/pilaf_ukraine/4140�
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