2009 annual report

Turkmenistan

Civic Education
$24,224
To encourage critical thinking and democratic values by training secondary school educators in Turkmenistan in interactive teaching methods and introducing these methods into the curriculum. The project will consist of advanced training, consultations, publication of a monthly bulletin and two instructional brochures, support for three resource centers, and maintenance of a database of instructions and sample materials for teachers’ use.

Human Rights
$156,500
Human rights programs in Turkmenistan will monitor human rights; provide free legal services; provide courses on legal assistance and discussion clubs for youth; maintain a database of Turkmen legislation; and contribute to human rights monitoring reports. One program supports a an annual meeting of international activists to assess the current state of human rights and develop concrete strategies to campaign more effectively.

Democratic Ideas and Values
$39,930
To support a program designed to encourage critical thinking and discussion among youth. The program will support initiatives such as camps and seminars among students. The organization will also host a conference for Turkmen students in Bishkek.

Freedom of Information
$81,620
Freedom of information programs in Turkmenistan will document human rights violations and report on conditions in the country. Other programs will offer computer and office skills training and instruction, pro bono legal advice, and a network for distributing information.