Turkmenistan Expands Local Efforts to Prevent Child and Forced Labour
A three-month information campaign by the International Labour Organization (ILO) on preventing child and forced labour ahead of the cotton-picking season has concluded in Turkmenistan. Around 1,500 people from 35 districts (etraps) across the country took part in the training sessions.
The initiative was organized by the ILO in partnership with national stakeholders, with financial support from the European Union (EU). From June 12, World Day Against Child Labour, to August 12, 15 events were held at the national and local levels as part of the programme. They included an introductory capacity-building seminar, 13 information sessions in the regions and districts, and a final meeting.
Regional meetings were held in Tejen, Gökdepe, Ak Bugdaý, Kerki, Saýat, Turkmenabat, Mary, Ýolöten, Bayramaly, Dashoguz, Akdepe, Köneürgench and Gyzylabat, bringing together participants from another 20 districts. Participants included representatives of local authorities, relevant ministries, educational and healthcare institutions, farmers’ associations, as well as employers’ and workers’ organizations.
The information sessions focused primarily on how to identify and prevent child and forced labour. Participants examined in detail the distinction between permissible light work and child labour prohibited by Turkmenistan’s legislation, as well as the legally established ban on involving children in the annual cotton harvest.
The events also addressed measures taken by the Government to eliminate and prevent the practice of forced recruitment for cotton picking. Particular emphasis was placed on the principle that all work must be voluntary and carried out without the threat of punishment. The sharing of experience by national experts with specialists at the local level helped ensure clear compliance with international standards.
Oksana Lipkanu, Head of the ILO Project in Turkmenistan, emphasized that raising awareness is a practical tool for prevention. This helps protect children from hazardous work while ensuring voluntary and safe employment for adults.
The activities were carried out jointly with members of the Working Group of the Interagency Commission on Ensuring the Fulfilment of Turkmenistan’s International Obligations in the Field of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law. Following the meetings, participants confirmed the need to continue awareness-raising efforts and develop practical materials.
The activities conducted are part of an ILO project for 2026–2027, funded by the EU. The programme combines support for policy development at the national level with local-level actions aimed at promoting decent work in the country’s cotton sector.
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