Turkmenistan stands out as an intriguing destination amidst its regional counterparts. This youthful nation, having attained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, is presently navigating a transformative journey toward greater autonomy. Turkmenistan, situated advantageously with abundant natural resources, holds the potential to shape the entire region’s dynamics. Expatriates have the opportunity to delve into Turkmenistan’s evolving culture, society, and history as it forges its path toward development and self-determination. It offers an exciting yet dynamic destination.
Society and culture
Turkmenistan’s rich cultural legacy is characterized by a strong emphasis on customs and hospitality. The Turkmen are proud of their history, which includes their ancestry as nomads and the renowned Akhal-Teke horse breed. Although Turkmen is the official language, Russian is commonly used and understood, particularly in metropolitan areas.
Turkmenistan’s educational system
Turkmenistan’s Ministry of Education plays a pivotal role in overseeing the entire spectrum of education, encompassing primary through secondary levels. In recent times, the nation has embarked on an ambitious quest for educational progress, showcasing a determined and rapid commitment to enhancing educational standards across its educational landscape. Agricultural University in Dashoguz and Military Academy in Ashgabad are two brand-new universities that will serve Turkmen students; they will not currently charge tuition. In Turkmenistan, there are 23 institutions of higher learning. Post-graduate courses are also provided by the Turkmen Academy of Sciences, which reopened in 2007. Fewer than a dozen spots are available each year, but the organization has a very stringent cap on the amount of spaces it may offer.
Turkmenistan’s transport system
Turkmenistan’s state-owned Tรผrkmendemirollary, which owns and runs the railway network, is used by many citizens to travel throughout the nation. At the crossroads of national borders, passenger mobility encounters restrictions along the routes spanning Kazakhstan-Turkmenistan-Iran and Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Tajikistan. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to highlight Turkmenistan’s significant financial commitment to the revitalization of its road infrastructure in recent times. This strategic endeavor has not only revitalized the nation’s transportation network but has also emerged as a cornerstone in propelling its sustained economic progress and development. For foreigners residing in Turkmenistan, holding a foreign driver’s license is mandatory, a requirement that underscores the country’s commitment to ensuring safe and lawful road usage. Despite the presence of commercial flights departing from Turkmenbashi and Ashgabat, Turkmenistan’s aviation sector maintains a somewhat rudimentary character. Governed by the state, the country’s air travel infrastructure is evolving gradually.
Safety and security in Turkmenistan
The Turkmenistan government does not release official crime figures, however, it is possible to make estimates of the country’s safety and security standards. Turkmenistan experiences occasional violent crime linked to drug trafficking, primarily involving opium transit from Afghanistan and Iran, with foreigners generally not implicated. Women who travel alone run the risk of being harassed or assaulted, and alcohol-related occurrences are frequent. The capital city Ashgabat is generally regarded as being relatively safe, but extra caution should be exercised when venturing close to the Turkmen/Afghan border. Be careful with your possessions to prevent pickpocketing because expats may be considered to be wealthy by local thieves and hence be targets of theft. Navigating Turkmenistan’s roads at night is discouraged due to their generally poor condition, with limited illumination primarily restricted to Ashgabat. When it comes to water, it’s advisable to refrain from consuming tap water and exercise caution when considering raw produce from local markets to ensure a safe and enjoyable stay. The Turkmenistan government frequently conducts ID checks, thus foreign nationals must always carry theirs with them. Residents of Turkmenistan should be aware of a variety of laws. It’s forbidden, for instance, to photograph some structures. It is also important to keep in mind that Turkmenistan is located in a seismically active area, where infrastructural problems can result in electricity and telecommunication problems.
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