On October 12, 2026, the 77th session of the Executive Committee of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) began at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland. Turkmenistan is participating in the international event with a delegation led by A. Sazakov, Head of the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan.

The significance of this year’s session has been particularly emphasized. The international community is marking the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees, which established a key foundation for protecting the rights of forcibly displaced people.

Speaking at the session’s general plenary meeting, the head of the Turkmen delegation emphasized that humanism is one of the priorities of the country’s state policy. Under the Constitution of Turkmenistan, the human being is recognized as the highest value of society and the state. This principle forms the basis of efforts aimed at ensuring the rights and freedoms of people living in the country.

Initiative to Strengthen International Law

The address placed particular emphasis on the initiative put forward by President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov in 2025, during the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, to declare 2028 the “International Year of Law.”

It was noted that the initiative is intended to strengthen the rule of international law under present-day conditions and improve the effectiveness of states’ implementation of their international obligations.

Results in Eliminating Statelessness

The session also highlighted the importance of the successful implementation of Turkmenistan’s National Action Plan for the Elimination of Statelessness for 2019–2024.

According to the information presented, more than 32,000 people were granted Turkmen citizenship as a result of the efforts undertaken in this area, while more than 5,000 people received residence permits in Turkmenistan.

Ahead of the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s independence, another 146 foreign citizens were granted residence permits in the country in accordance with a decree issued by President Serdar Berdimuhamedov. This demonstrates the continuation of the country’s humanitarian policy.

Developing International Cooperation

The Turkmen side reaffirmed its readiness to further strengthen international cooperation in the field of migration. Key priorities include expanding the legal and treaty framework for cooperation, exchanging digital information and experience, and participating in the implementation of international programmes and initiatives related to sustainable development and humanitarian cooperation.

It was also noted that effective migration management requires coordinated efforts by states and the development of international dialogue.

The 77th session of the Executive Committee of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees will continue until October 16, 2026.