Why Turkmenistan Makes North Korea Look Normal | Documentary

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2 Oct 2025

Since 1991, Turkmenistan has been ruled by an equally bizarre and ruthless dictatorship. Much like North Korea, the heads of state wield absolute power and have the freedom to act on a whim. 

The Berdymukhamedov family has ruled Turkmenistan for two generations. The capital, Ashgabat, is a monument to megalomania and is listed as the world’s most expensive city. Every one of its buildings is constructed entirely of white marble and only white cars are allowed on its pristine, deserted streets. The city holds the record for the largest star-shaped building, the largest horse-shaped stadium and the highest concentration of fountains.

Turkmenistan is famous for its countless absurd rules. There is a compulsory 11pm curfew and the country is scattered with museums and immense golden statues glorifying the Berdymukhamedov regime. The dictator delights in singing songs that he himself has composed praising the country. He also enjoys administering justice in public, like on national TV, where he humiliates and sentences ministers accused of corruption.

To uncover the secrets of this reclusive dictatorship, we discreetly joined a tourist group. Behind the opulence lies a brutal regime that suppresses and threatens any opposition. Only a tiny minority have benefited from the country’s wealth; there is mass unemployment and extreme poverty.

This documentary was produced by Nova Productions  and directed by Ali Watani & Alexis Noé. It was first released in 2024.

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