Turkmen Media Professionals Participate in OSCE Training Workshop

On May 12 and 13, 2026, media professionals from various regions of Turkmenistan gathered for a significant media literacy training session in Ashgabat. Organized by the OSCE Centre, this workshop aimed at enhancing skills in critical analysis, digital safety, fact-checking, and ethical journalism in today's shifting media landscape.

The event attracted professionals from print, television, and online media sectors, addressing the rising challenges posed by artificial intelligence, misinformation, and harmful digital content. Participants were equipped with tools to better navigate these complexities.

During the event, the importance of media literacy was underscored, highlighting the evolving demands on modern journalists. Attendees learned to discern fact from fiction and produce reliable journalism that meets audience needs.

William Leaf, Head of the OSCE Centre, stressed the crucial role of journalists in society, noting their responsibility to provide credible information that helps the public make informed decisions.

The training featured sessions led by national experts, along with contributions from Adil Jalilov, an international media professional. Topics covered included practical fact-checking techniques, media ethics, and tools for digital safety, including insights into utilizing AI in journalism.

UNESCO's ethical guidelines for responsible reporting were integral to the curriculum, providing participants with contemporary methods for verifying information online and safeguarding against disinformation risks that could undermine media integrity.

The OSCE Centre in Ashgabat has been active in supporting Turkmenistan's National Human Rights Action Plan by advancing media freedom and literacy initiatives. They have trained a cohort of 20 trainers dedicated to fostering journalism education across the country.

Officials highlighted the strategic significance of such educational initiatives for the future of journalism in Turkmenistan, aiming to equip young media workers with the skills necessary to address global digital challenges and safeguard the information landscape.