Turkmenistan

World Book Index

Introduction

Present-day Turkmenistan is a nation steeped in rich history, having served as a pivotal crossroads for various civilizations throughout the ages. The region has witnessed the rise and fall of numerous Persian empires, the conquests of Alexander the Great, the expansion of Muslim armies, the incursions of the Mongols, and the migrations of Turkic warriors. Eventually, it fell under Russian control, becoming a Soviet republic in 1924. Following the dissolution of the USSR in 1991, Turkmenistan emerged as an independent state, embarking on a journey to define its national identity and sovereignty in the modern world.

Neighboring countries

Afghanistan - Iran - Kazakhstan - Uzbekistan

Geography

Area
Total: 488,100 sq km
Land: 469,930 sq km
Water: 18,170 sq km

Turkmenistan is characterized by its vast and diverse geography, predominantly consisting of arid desert landscapes, which are part of the larger Karakum Desert. The country is bordered by the Caspian Sea to the west, providing it with a unique coastal environment. The climate is classified as subtropical desert, resulting in hot summers and mild winters, which significantly influences the lifestyle and economic activities of its inhabitants. The natural resources of Turkmenistan are abundant, with significant reserves of petroleum and natural gas, alongside sulfur and salt, which play a crucial role in its economy and international trade.

People and Society

Population
Total: 5,744,151 (2024 estimated)

Ethnic groups
Turkmen 85%, Uzbek 5%, Russian 4%, other 6% (2003 estimated)

Languages
Turkmen (official) 72%, Russian 12%, Uzbek 9%, other 7%

Religions
Muslim 93%, Christian 6.4%, Buddhist <1%, folk religion <1%, Jewish <1%, other <1%, unspecified <1% (2020 estimated)

Population growth rate
0.92% (2024 estimated)

The demographic composition of Turkmenistan reflects a predominantly Turkmen identity, with 85% of the population identifying as Turkmen. The country is home to a variety of ethnic groups, including Uzbeks and Russians, contributing to a multicultural society. The official language is Turkmen, which is spoken by the majority, while Russian and Uzbek also hold significance in daily communication and cultural exchanges. The religious landscape is predominantly Muslim, with a significant majority practicing Islam, which influences various aspects of life, including traditions and social norms. The population growth rate of 0.92% indicates a steady increase, suggesting potential for future demographic shifts and economic implications.

Government

Government type
Presidential republic; authoritarian

Capital
Name: Ashgabat (Ashkhabad)

Executive branch
Chief of state: President Serdar BERDIMUHAMEDOV (since 19 March 2022)
Head of government: President Serdar BERDIMUHAMEDOV (since 19 March 2022)

Diplomatic representation in the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador Meret ORAZOV (since 14 February 2001)

Diplomatic representation from the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador Elizabeth ROOD (since 31 July 2024)

Turkmenistan operates as a presidential republic characterized by an authoritarian regime, where the President holds significant power over the state apparatus. The capital city, Ashgabat, serves as the political and administrative center of the country. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov has been in power since March 2022, continuing the legacy of his predecessor. The diplomatic landscape is marked by Turkmenistan's strategic partnerships, particularly with the United States, where it maintains an ambassadorial presence, reflecting its efforts to engage with global powers while navigating its unique geopolitical position.

Economy

Economic overview
Upper middle-income Central Asian economy; has 10% of global natural gas reserves, exporting to Russia and China; natural resource rich; authoritarian and dominated by state-owned enterprises; major central-south Asian pipeline development

Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
$134.555 billion (2024 estimated)
$131.576 billion (2023 estimated)
$123.778 billion (2022 estimated)

Real GDP per capita
$18,000 (2024 estimated)
$17,900 (2023 estimated)
$17,100 (2022 estimated)

Exports
$13.111 billion (2023 estimated)
$14.67 billion (2022 estimated)
$10.282 billion (2021 estimated)

Exports - partners
China 63%, Turkey 11%, Greece 7%, Uzbekistan 6%, Azerbaijan 4% (2023)

Exports - commodities
Natural gas, refined petroleum, fertilizers, crude petroleum, electricity (2023)

Imports
$7.563 billion (2023 estimated)
$7.362 billion (2022 estimated)
$6.25 billion (2021 estimated)

Imports - partners
Turkey 21%, UAE 21%, China 20%, Kazakhstan 8%, Germany 5% (2023)

Imports - commodities
Broadcasting equipment, cars, wheat, computers, iron pipes (2023)

Turkmenistan's economy is classified as an upper middle-income economy within Central Asia, heavily reliant on its vast natural resources, particularly its substantial natural gas reserves, which account for approximately 10% of the world's total. The country has established itself as a key exporter of natural gas, primarily to Russia and China, which has bolstered its economic standing. The real GDP, measured in purchasing power parity, is projected to reach $134.555 billion in 2024, reflecting a steady growth trajectory. Per capita income is also on the rise, with estimates indicating $18,000 for 2024. The export landscape is dominated by natural gas and petroleum products, while imports are largely comprised of machinery and consumer goods, indicating a reliance on foreign technology and products. The economy is characterized by a significant presence of state-owned enterprises, which play a crucial role in economic management and development, alongside ongoing infrastructure projects, particularly in pipeline development that connects Central Asia with global markets.

Human Development Index

The country's Human Development Index (HDI) is 0.764, ranking it 95th out of 193 countries tested. (more information)

World Happiness Report

The World Happiness Report ranked the country 101st out of 158 countries tested with a score of 5.119. (more information)