A high-level conference titled “Independent Neutral Turkmenistan – Homeland of Purposeful Heavenly Horses: The Role of Women in Modern Society” was held at the Mejlis (Parliament) of Turkmenistan on Tuesday, 31 March 2026. The forum brought together government officials, diplomats, representatives of international organizations, and women who have achieved significant success in various sectors of the economy and culture.
The event’s program focused on the multifaceted contribution of women to nation-building, science, education, and the preservation of national values. Special emphasis was placed on issues of gender equality and the protection of motherhood and childhood.
The conference also addressed ways to increase the effectiveness of international cooperation in this field, conducted alongside UN agencies such as UNESCO, UNICEF, and other international organizations.
State Guarantees and Legal Framework
B. Myradowa, Chairperson of the Mejlis Committee on Science, Education, Culture, and Youth Policy, emphasized that the modern Turkmen woman successfully fulfills her potential as a leader, diplomat, physician, and entrepreneur.
“The national legal system of Turkmenistan includes firm guarantees ensuring equal rights for men and women. The Constitution and the Law ‘On State Guarantees for Ensuring Equal Rights and Equal Opportunities’ have become fundamental instruments of gender policy,” she noted.
Participants also highlighted the effectiveness of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Supporting Children in Need of Guardianship, whose activities in addressing humanitarian challenges have received broad international recognition.
Historical Continuity and UNESCO
Ch. Rustamova, Executive Secretary of the National Commission for UNESCO and Hero of Turkmenistan, drew a parallel between historical heritage and modernity in her speech. She recalled that Turkmen women have historically participated in the foundation of great states while maintaining their role as guardians of the family hearth.
Historical and cultural sites preserved throughout Turkmenistan—such as Paraw-bibi, the Great and Small Kyz-gala, Törebeg-hanym, Gyzbibi, Dayahatyn, and many others—tell the story of great women who contributed to the development of the nation and the formation of Turkmen culture.
Regarding international initiatives in gender equality, Rustamova emphasized that Turkmenistan advocates for the creation of a mechanism for regular international consultations and dialogue on the implementation of the global “Women, Peace, and Security” agenda, involving UN agencies as well as other international and regional organizations.
International Perspective and Diplomatic Support
The conference was attended by the heads of foreign diplomatic missions, who highly praised Turkmenistan’s progress in the field of expanding women’s rights.
Jalpa Ratna, the UNICEF Representative in Turkmenistan, emphasized that the evolving role of women in modern society is a fundamental force shaping our collective future.
She noted that the collaborative efforts between UNICEF and its partners are yielding inspiring results. By 2024, more than 70% of the global goals established under the UNICEF Gender Action Plan had been achieved.
However, significant challenges remain. In many parts of the world, girls are still unable to reach their full potential. Currently, 122 million girls are deprived of their right to attend school, and approximately four out of every ten do not complete their secondary education. Furthermore, issues such as violence against women and obstacles regarding reproductive health persist. Ratna warned that without proactive measures, global shifts—including climate change, demographic changes, and the technological transition—could further widen these inequalities.
The UNICEF Representative expressed high regard for the partnership between UNICEF, the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, and national agencies. She pointed out that through consistent dialogue and shared initiatives, it is possible to strengthen the policies, services, and systems that support women and girls at every stage of their lives.
Ultimately, gender equality is viewed not only as a matter of justice but as a prerequisite for general progress. When women are educated, economies grow; when they hold leadership positions, societies become more cohesive and resilient; and when they live in safety, the entire community becomes stronger.
Elizabeth Rood, Ambassador of the United States of America to Turkmenistan, emphasized that women have the right to equal education, free choice of profession, participation in public administration, and the realization of all human rights. The Ambassador praised Turkmenistan’s legislative framework and reaffirmed U.S. support for the country’s efforts to ensure gender equality.
Beata Pęksa, Ambassador of the European Union to Turkmenistan, noted the importance of equal opportunities for women and men in all spheres of life to achieve innovation and sustainable development. She recalled that the commitment to these principles was reaffirmed by all parties upon the adoption of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Goal 5 — achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls.
It was noted that in 2026, the European Commission adopted a new Gender Equality Strategy for 2026–2030, which fully integrates gender equality into all areas of life, including education, employment, healthcare, and public activities.
Rana Abu Hijleh, Ambassador of the State Palestine to Turkmenistan, emphasized the Turkmen government’s commitment to expanding women’s rights and active international cooperation. She also spoke about the role of Palestinian women in the family, social, and political life of her country.
Oguldjennet Berdiyeva: Guardians of Tradition and Family Values
Oguldjennet Berdiyeva, Chairperson of the National Center of Trade Unions and the Central Council of the Women’s Union of Turkmenistan, emphasized that Turkmen women have historically been regarded as the pride, honor, and dignity of the nation. They are held in high esteem for their role in preserving noble family traditions.
According to Berdiyeva, Turkmen law guarantees equal rights and freedoms for both men and women. The country actively supports empowering women to take part in decision-making processes regarding peace, stability, and sustainable development.
Berdiyeva drew particular attention to the book by the National Leader, titled “Veneration of a Mother — Veneration of a Sanctity,” which celebrates the importance of mothers and family values. She noted that the life examples of Turkmen women serve as a model for preserving spiritual heritage and advancing national arts.
Narine Sahakyan (UNDP): Gender Equality as a Foundation for Sustainable Development
Narine Sahakyan, UNDP Resident Representative in Turkmenistan, noted that women play a vital role in the economy, education, science, technology, and governance.
Promoting the active and full participation of women in state and social life is a fundamental condition for achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This global roadmap guides humanity toward a more just, inclusive, and resilient future.
The UNDP is fully committed to accelerating gender equality and women’s empowerment. Modern society demands that women’s voices be heard during decision-making at all levels. “She called for supporting young women as they transition from exemplary students into confident politicians, diplomats, and business leaders.
Sahakyan highlighted that the priorities for supporting women’s leadership are being enhanced in Turkmenistan through continuous efforts to refine the country’s legal framework and institutional capacity. These priorities include: ensuring active participation in peacebuilding efforts to enhance stability, strengthening local social infrastructure, combating discrimination and gender-based violence, ensuring equal access to clean energy and essential resources.
In today’s rapidly changing world, equal access to digital technology is crucial. In partnership with the Government of Turkmenistan, the UNDP is supporting the development of a National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence to ensure the country’s sustainable digital integration. Special focus is being placed on developing digital skills and ensuring women’s participation in high-tech sectors.
Tavus Kakayeva: On Humanity and the Harmony of Heart and Mind
Tavus Kakayeva, Chief Editor of the Watan newspaper, emphasized that ensuring gender equality in Turkmenistan is a fundamental aspect of democracy. By acceding to various international conventions, the country has consistently strengthened its legal framework in this area.
“When we speak of women, we speak first and foremost of mothers. Our people treat mothers as a sacred presence,” she noted.
Kakayeva added that modern Turkmen women are strengthening their positions in society by blending gentleness with strength, and courage with care. She remarked that they harmoniously balance “reason” and “emotion,” and from this harmony, humanity is born—a quality the global community needs today more than ever.
Ogulmakhri Geldiyeva: Maternal and Child Health — A Healthy Future for the Nation
Ogulmahri Geldiyeva, Director of the Health Information Center of the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan, emphasized that the protection of citizens’ health is effectively carried out based on the principles of equality, solidarity, and humanity. The role of women in safeguarding maternal and child health has been elevated to a matter of state priority. Notably, mothers of large families are provided with housing and honored with prestigious titles.
“A healthy mother leads to a healthy child, which ensures a healthy future,” Geldiyeva highlighted. The country consistently protects motherhood and childhood, with significant contributions made by the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Fund for Supporting Children in Need of Guardianship.
Ayna Durdylyyeva: Women Entrepreneurs and the Revival of National Art
Ayna Durdylyyeva, Founder and Director of the “Mähirli Zenan” private enterprise, noted that the Women’s Union of Turkmenistan acts as a powerful force in elevating the status of women, bringing together thousands of professionals across various fields. Their contributions are prominently seen in the service industry, tourism, science, manufacturing, and traditional crafts.
Upon establishing her enterprise, Durdylyyeva set a clear goal: to create modern interpretations of national embroidery and to promote exquisite examples of Turkmen artistic craftsmanship both across the country and on the global stage.
Jennet Seyidova: Women in Horse Breeding and National Sports
Jennet Seyidova, a lecturer at the Aba Annayev International Academy of Horse Breeding, noted that the glorious history of Turkmenistan bears witness to the special role women have played in society. In the past, Turkmen women defended their country on horseback, contributed to world science, and left a profound legacy in the nation’s history.
Today, women continue to make immense contributions to the country’s development through their talents and dedicated labor. A shining example is the participation of young women in the “Galkynysh” National Equestrian Games group.
Jennet Seyidova began her own career and life path as a member of the “Galkynysh” group and now continues her journey at the Aba Annayev International Academy of Horse Breeding, passing on her expertise to future generations. The conference at the Mejlis of Turkmenistan once again demonstrated that the role of women in the country is multifaceted: ranging from the preservation of spiritual traditions and family values to active participation in the economy, science, healthcare, digital transformation, and international cooperation./// nCa, 31 March 2026