A round table discussion on the development of the legal aid system and the role of lawyers in protecting human rights was held in Ashgabat. The initiative was organised by the Presidium of the Ashgabat Bar Association and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with the support of the British Embassy, according to the Orient news agency.

The event was attended by representatives of the Mejlis, the Ministry of Justice of Turkmenistan, the judiciary, law enforcement agencies and other state structures. The results of a joint project aimed at expanding access to justice, especially for women and people with disabilities, were discussed.

Key achievements include the development of a Roadmap for the creation of a National Professional Association of Lawyers, the launch of a modern website for the Bar Association, and an analysis of the Criminal Procedure Code with recommendations for strengthening the right to defence.

UNDP Resident Representative Narine Sahakyan noted the importance of these steps in promoting the rule of law and creating an inclusive legal aid system.

The round table also served as a platform for dialogue between lawyers and government agencies, laying the foundation for further cooperation and bringing the Turkmen legal aid system into line with international standards.