Transition to market relations in Turkmenistan is being carried out in the framework of the state policy that ensures the population’s social security. The country’s policy of radical social changes is aimed at the provision of the high living standard of the population. “The State is for People!” is the main slogan and the basic doctrine of the ongoing reforms in Turkmenistan. Currently, hundreds of modern hospitals, clinics, higher educational institutions, schools, kindergartens, sport facilities are under construction. They are equipped with the latest technologies. The citizens of Turkmenistan have free access to modern medical services and education. Turkmenistan will have the bright future.
The state supplies the population with free of charge electricity, natural gas, water and salt. Since 2008, the citizens of Turkmenistan have used limited free motor fuel depending on the type of the motor vehicle. Insignificant prices are fixed for bread, for the travel by the public transport, as well as by motor vehicles, railways and airlines inside country. More than 70% of the state budget of Turkmenistan is annually allocated for social needs. Turkmenistan annually increases salary, pension, public welfare payments and student stipend by 10%. All people of the country use gas, water, salt, electricity free of charge. This benefit will be valid until 2030. The state adjusted minimal sizes of residential, communal and transport services as per the world standards for the population of Turkmenistan. In accordance with the Code of Turkmenistan “On Social Security,” which came into force on July 1, 2007, the state expanded a number of public welfare payments and social aid given to disabled people. Disability benefits have been increased. There is state welfare payment at a birth of a baby – for taking care till the age of 1.5 years old. There is also welfare payment in case if the breadwinner is lost. The right for the assignment of the breadwinner is also provided.