Turkmenistan’s Neutrality and Soft Power: A Model for Peaceful Influence

Abstract

This article explores Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality as a central pillar of its soft power strategy and a distinctive model for peaceful influence in contemporary international relations. Declared as a deliberate foreign policy choice post-independence in 1991, Turkmenistan’s neutral status is internationally recognized, enshrined in its Constitution, and was unanimously ratified by the UN General Assembly in 1995. This commitment represents stability, predictability, and trustworthiness, serving as an effective instrument for fostering global peace, cooperation, and sustainable development. Turkmenistan actively leverages its neutrality through platforms like the UN Regional Center for Preventive Diplomacy, contributing to regional conflict prevention, and enhancing global transport and energy security. The UN’s recognition of December 12 as the International Day of Neutrality and the upcoming “International Year of Peace and Trust” in 2025 highlight its enduring global significance.