Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleFelix LightMonday 04 May 2026 12:59 BSTA glimpse of Turkmenistan in 60 secondsTurkmenistan, long considered one of the world's most isolated and secretive nations, is witnessing a quiet emergence of e-commerce and private businesses, exemplified by the startup Wabrum, despite its tightly controlled political environment.Since President Serdar Berdymukhamedov took office in 2022, there have been signs of a “modest thaw”, including efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties, simplify visa regimes, and diversify the largely state-run economy.Foreign diplomats in Ashgabat note a slow generational change within the ruling elite, leading to modest increases in personal freedoms, though the country remains challenging for international investors due to opaque politics and currency issues.Despite heavy internet censorship and low usage rates, social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok are gaining popularity via VPNs, fostering new cultural trends such as breakdancing among younger generations.These developments highlight a gradual shift in Turkmen society, with citizens like social media influencer Enejan Velmuradova expressing optimism about breaking stereotypes of a closed nation.In fullOne of the world’s least visited countries is slowly opening upThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in