Oguljamal Yazliyeva is the Director of RFE's Turkmen Service, Radio Azatlyk. Prior to joining RFE, Oguljamal spent more than 20 years at Turkmen State University, where she served as Associate Professor, Chair of the Foreign Languages Department, Deputy Dean of Law and International Relations Faculty, and Dean of the International Business and Management Faculty. We asked Oguljamal three questions to get a better understanding of the Turkmen Service and her aspirations as a journalist.
What impact is Radio Azatlyk having in Turkmenistan?
OY: The Turkmen Service's radio programs and web features are unique. We are the only source of uncensored information in the Turkmen language with in-depth analysis of domestic, regional and international events. We promote critical thinking, which is an essential part of any democratic society.
What is one popular program or aspect of your service that is making a difference?
OY: Definitely our “People's Voice” program. It is based entirely on information we receive from individuals on the ground. Despite fear of reprisal, people send us their thoughts via email, phone, and in writing. I must also mention our weekly talk show programs: “Roundtable Discussion,” “Musical Talk Show,” and “Spotlight.” All of them are very popular.
What motivated you to get into journalism?
OY: I am motivated by the fact that I serve the people of Turkmenistan. I wish to see the Turkmen people free, and I believe that my work as a journalist is needed for Turkmenistan's development in line with democratic principles.
What impact is Radio Azatlyk having in Turkmenistan?
OY: The Turkmen Service's radio programs and web features are unique. We are the only source of uncensored information in the Turkmen language with in-depth analysis of domestic, regional and international events. We promote critical thinking, which is an essential part of any democratic society.
What is one popular program or aspect of your service that is making a difference?
OY: Definitely our “People's Voice” program. It is based entirely on information we receive from individuals on the ground. Despite fear of reprisal, people send us their thoughts via email, phone, and in writing. I must also mention our weekly talk show programs: “Roundtable Discussion,” “Musical Talk Show,” and “Spotlight.” All of them are very popular.
I wish to see the Turkmen people free, and I believe that my work as a journalist is needed for Turkmenistan's development in line with democratic principles.
What motivated you to get into journalism?
OY: I am motivated by the fact that I serve the people of Turkmenistan. I wish to see the Turkmen people free, and I believe that my work as a journalist is needed for Turkmenistan's development in line with democratic principles.