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Oguljamal Yazliyeva. "Dynamics of the Media System in Post-Soviet Turkmenistan". Journal of Nationalism, Memory & Language Politics 01:92-110. https://www.ceeol.com/search/article-detail?id=894783

This article explores the media environment in Turkmenistan from a comparative perspective, focusing on President Saparmurat Niyazov and his successor, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov.
Key themes include:
- The development of the media system since the early 1990s.
- The role of media in building a cult of personality around Niyazov and how this was continued under Berdimuhamedov.
- Analysis of Turkmen TV channels, including styles of presenting materials and propaganda techniques.
- Examination of the political culture under authoritarianism affecting media behaviors.

Research focus on post-Soviet Central Asia, particularly Turkmenistan's media environment.
The political regime and leadership’s personality have been widely studied in Western scholarship.
The transformation of the media landscape could change political culture.

Defined as the values and expectations that shape political practices.
Early studies by Almond and Verba addressed political culture in structural-functionalist terms.
The concept is critical for examining media strategies under authoritarian regimes.

Turkmenistan's political system is characterized as authoritarian.
Niyazov aimed for total isolation from foreign influence. His fear of external influence shaped the media landscape.
The media's suppression and censorship policies have been a significant focus of social science research.

Comparison of Niyazov's and Berdimuhamedov's media policies.
Media under both presidencies focused on glorifying the leaders.
Niyazov had a centralized media system; Berdimuhamedov introduced some modifications while maintaining censorship.

Niyazov Era (1991-2006): Absolute control, censorship, and a focus on the cult of personality, using a strong authoritarian grip on all media outlets.
Berdimuhamedov Era (2007-Present): Continued censorship but with gradual attempts to ease isolation; introduction of some legislative measures aimed at media modernization, though practices remain deeply controlled.

Early 1990s: A brief period of relatively free speech; subsequent increases in media suppression began following Niyazov’s consolidation of power.
Important examples of media attempts to address social issues and government corruption were quashed.

Construction of Niyazov's Cult: Characterized by glorification in media narratives, turning him into a national prophet.
Berdimuhamedov's Approach: Follows Niyazov’s mold but introduces concepts like the "Prosperous Era of Powerful State."
Media content serves the singular function of promoting the president's persona, using specific language and propaganda techniques.

The media environment is described as a "black hole," highlighting severe restrictions on free information flow and reportage.
Types of journalists identified through interviews:
- Dar dünýägaraýyşly: Brainwashed, unaware of political processes.
- Özboluşly dünýägaraýyşly: Forced to comply due to limited options.
- Giň dünýägaraýyşly: Those advocating for freedom of speech, operating secretly.

Although minor dynamics in media policies suggest potential progress, the overarching authoritarian framework characterized by fear and suppression remains intact.
The historical narrative emphasizes that societal norms and political culture are deeply intertwined in constructing the media landscape.
Future research may explore the role of newer forms of journalism, including citizen journalists and social media, in challenging the authoritarian media regimes.