1. Geography and Climate
- Location: Bordered by Kazakhstan to the northwest, Uzbekistan to the north and east, Afghanistan to the southeast, Iran to the south, and the Caspian Sea to the west.
- Terrain: Over 80% of the country is covered by the Karakum (Black Sand) Desert. The landscape is mostly flat-to-rolling sandy desert with dunes.
- Climate: A harsh continental climate. Summers are long, hot, and dry, with temperatures in Ashgabat often exceeding 40°C (104°F). Winters are mild and dry, though temperatures can drop below freezing in the north.
- Notable Feature: The Darvaza Gas Crater, also known as the "Gates of Hell." This is a natural gas field that collapsed into a cavern in 1971. Geologists set it on fire to prevent the spread of methane gas, and it has been burning continuously ever since, creating a spectacular and surreal sight in the middle of the desert.
2. History
- Ancient History: The territory of modern Turkmenistan has a rich history, having been a crossroads of civilizations for centuries. It was home to the ancient city of Merv, a major oasis-city on the historic Silk Road and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Russian and Soviet Era: In the late 19th century, the area was conquered by the Russian Empire. After the Russian Revolution, it became the Turkmen Soviet Socialist Republic (Turkmen SSR) in 1924, a constituent republic of the Soviet Union.
- Independence: Turkmenistan declared independence from the Soviet Union on October 27, 1991.
3. Government and Politics
Turkmenistan's modern political landscape has been defined by two successive, highly authoritarian leaders and a dynastic succession.
- Saparmurat Niyazov (1991-2006):
- The first president, who declared himself "President for Life."
- He adopted the title "Türkmenbaşy" (Leader of all Turkmen).
- He established an all-encompassing personality cult, with gold statues of himself (some of which rotated to face the sun), and named cities, airports, and even a month of the year after himself and his family.
- He wrote the Ruhnama ("The Book of the Soul"), a spiritual/moral guidebook that was mandatory in all schools and government institutions.
- Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow (2006-2022):
- After Niyazov's death, Berdimuhamedow came to power. He initially dismantled some of Niyazov's most extreme policies but soon built his own personality cult.
- He adopted the title "Arkadag" (The Protector).
- He is known for his eccentric public appearances, including rapping, DJing, weightlifting, and showcasing his skills in marksmanship and horse riding. He also has a deep passion for the national Akhal-Teke horse.
- Serdar Berdimuhamedow (2022-Present):
- In a carefully managed transition, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow's son, Serdar, was elected president in 2022, marking the first dynastic succession in a Central Asian republic. The elder Berdimuhamedow remains a powerful figure as Chairman of the People's Council.
- Foreign Policy: Turkmenistan's foreign policy is based on "permanent neutrality," which was formally recognized by the United Nations in 1995. This policy has been used to justify its isolationism and limited engagement with international bodies and other nations.
4. Economy
- Natural Gas: The economy is overwhelmingly dependent on its vast reserves of natural gas, ranking among the top five countries in the world for proven reserves. Its main customers are China and, to a lesser extent, Russia.
- State-Controlled: The economy is centrally planned and state-controlled. The government heavily subsidizes essentials like electricity, water, and gas for its citizens.
- Other Industries: Agriculture, particularly cotton and wheat, is a significant part of the economy, though it is notoriously inefficient. The textile industry is also a key sector.
- Challenges: The economy is vulnerable to fluctuations in global energy prices and lacks diversification. There is a vast disparity between the official image of prosperity (seen in the marble-clad capital of Ashgabat) and the economic realities for much of the population.
5. Culture and Society
- National Symbols:
- Akhal-Teke Horse: A breed of horse known for its speed, endurance, intelligence, and distinctive metallic sheen. It is a source of immense national pride.
- Turkmen Carpets: Hand-woven carpets from Turkmenistan are famous worldwide for their intricate designs and quality. The patterns often signify different Turkmen tribes. A giant carpet pattern is a primary motif on the national flag.
- People: The majority of the population are ethnic Turkmen, with smaller minorities of Uzbeks and Russians. Tribal identity remains an important aspect of society.
- Information Control: Society is highly controlled. There is no free press, and the internet is heavily censored and restricted. Access to outside information is extremely limited.
- Ashgabat - The "City of White Marble": The capital city was rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1948. Under Niyazov and Berdimuhamedow, it has been transformed into a showcase of grandiose, futuristic architecture, with a Guinness World Record for the highest concentration of white marble-clad buildings in the world. The city often appears eerily empty and sterile.
6. Tourism
- Difficult to Visit: Turkmenistan is one of the hardest countries for tourists to enter. A visa is required for almost all visitors, and most can only visit as part of an expensive, state-approved guided tour.
- Main Attractions:
- Ashgabat: For its bizarre and unique architecture.
- Darvaza Gas Crater ("Gates of Hell"): The country's most famous tourist site.
- Ancient Merv and Nisa: UNESCO World Heritage sites offering a glimpse into the region's deep history.
- Yangykala Canyon: A stunning and colorful canyon landscape near the Caspian Sea.
