Is Prostitution Legal in Turkmenistan?
In Turkmenistan, prostitution is illegal and considered a criminal offense. The government of Turkmenistan has been taking various measures to combat and eradicate prostitution in the country, but it remains a significant social issue.
What Are the Laws and Penalties Regarding Prostitution?
Prostitution in Turkmenistan is governed by the Criminal Code of Turkmenistan. The relevant articles of the Criminal Code that deal with prostitution and related offenses are:
- Article 135 – Engaging in prostitution (providing sexual services for money).
- Article 136 – Involving others in prostitution (pimping).
- Article 137 – Establishing or maintaining premises for prostitution (brothels).
Penalties for these offenses can range from fines to imprisonment, depending on the severity of the crime and the involvement of the individual in the act of prostitution.
| Offense | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Engaging in prostitution | Fines or imprisonment up to 2 years |
| Involving others in prostitution | Imprisonment from 2 to 5 years |
| Establishing or maintaining premises for prostitution | Imprisonment from 3 to 8 years |
How is Prostitution Referred to Locally in Turkmenistan?
Prostitution in Turkmenistan is often referred to as fahisha in the local Turkmen language, which translates to prostitute or harlot in English. The term is used to describe both male and female sex workers in the country.
What is the History of Prostitution in Turkmenistan?
Prostitution has been present in Turkmenistan for centuries, with historical accounts suggesting that it was a common practice during the times of the Silk Road trade routes. However, the issue of prostitution became more prevalent and visible in the country following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. The economic crisis and high unemployment rates that ensued led many women to turn to prostitution as a means of survival.
Since gaining independence, the government of Turkmenistan has implemented various measures to combat prostitution and raise public awareness about the issue. This includes educational campaigns, stricter law enforcement, and increased penalties for those involved in the sex trade.
How Does the Government Address Prostitution Legality and Links?
The government of Turkmenistan takes a strict stance on the issue of prostitution and its legality. In addition to the legal framework and penalties in place, the government has also implemented several measures to address the root causes of prostitution and minimize its links to other criminal activities:
- Education and awareness campaigns – The government has been working to raise public awareness about the dangers of prostitution and the exploitation of women through various educational programs and media campaigns.
- Support for vulnerable populations – Efforts have been made to provide support and assistance to women and girls who may be at risk of becoming involved in prostitution, including access to education, vocational training, and social services.
- Combatting human trafficking – Turkmenistan has been taking steps to strengthen its efforts to combat human trafficking, which often has links to prostitution. This includes the implementation of a National Action Plan to Combat Trafficking in Persons and increased cooperation with international organizations and neighboring countries.
Despite these efforts, prostitution remains a significant social issue in Turkmenistan, and more needs to be done to address the root causes of the problem and provide support and alternatives for those who are vulnerable to becoming involved in the sex trade.