Since Turkmenistan gained independence, the Turkmen government has consistently promoted the narrative that it has been actively strengthening the country’s social contract by investing in public welfare and development. Official discourse emphasizes state-led initiatives aimed at improving living standards, economic stability, and social services. However, this claim has been continuously challenged by evidence of chronic underinvestment in key sectors such as education and healthcare, rising inequalities in human development, and severe restrictions on fundamental rights, including freedom of expression and political participation.

This event will examine the state of Turkmenistan’s social contract, critically assessing the gap between government rhetoric and the lived reality of its citizens. Panelists will explore the structural challenges facing the country’s social policies, the impact of economic constraints on social welfare, and the broader implications for governance and stability. Additionally, the discussion will address the role of the international community in engaging with Turkmenistan, weighing the opportunities and limitations of external influence in promoting meaningful social development improvements.

Speakers:

• Aynabat Yaylymova is Founder and Executive Director of Progres Foundation.
• Oguljamal Yazliyeva holds a Ph.D. in International Area Studies from Charles University in Prague.
• Rustam Mukhamedov is currently a Kroc Institute Fellow pursuing a Master of Global Affairs degree with a major in International Peace Studies at the Kroc Institute of the University of Notre Dame.
• Sebastien Peyrouse  is Director of the Central Asia Program and Research Professor, IERES, The George Washington University.
• Ogulgerek Palwanowa is a researcher at Progres Foundation.

Moderator:

• Sean R. Roberts is an Associate Professor in the Practice of International Affairs and Director of the International Development Studies (IDS) MA program at The George Washington University’s Elliott School of International Affairs.