The Performance Monitoring Unit for reducing air pollution and improving infrastructure in Ulaanbaatar City convened to discuss various initiatives, including resolving power shortages, introducing renewable energy heating solutions for households in ger districts, the planning and development of Hunnu City, and the installation of smart surveillance cameras at city intersections and crossings. The meeting also highlighted the digital transition of the public transport sector.

Currently, 2,606 cameras have been installed at 176 intersections and crossings throughout Ulaanbaatar City. The Video Surveillance Center has been established in the Capital City, along with nine district-level monitoring centers, integrating data from both public and private sector cameras. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is now being used to process this data.

Mayor Nyambaatar Khishgee stated, "Artificial Intelligence can analyze footage recorded by surveillance cameras. For example, it can monitor fire incidents, flood levels, and the filling status of trash bins in streets and public areas, providing real-time data to relevant authorities. Monitoring a single major intersection in the city center has detected 100,000 violations per day. Many traffic violations, including failure to follow traffic rules, are being identified. Smart cameras help track improper lane usage, traffic light violations, crossing stop lines, and other actions that obstruct traffic flow. We are also laying the foundation for AI-powered traffic violation penalties."

During the meeting, it was highlighted that Ulaanbaatar City’s public transport system has fully transitioned to a digital system. Passengers can now pay for bus fares using transportation cards, any bank card, or other digital payment methods, making the process more convenient. For instance, by installing the UBCard mobile app, passengers can pay via QR code, check their travel and recharge history, transfer unused balances, access bus routes, stops, and schedules, monitor bus occupancy, navigate routes, submit feedback or complaints, and receive updates on public transport services.

The number of public transport users in Ulaanbaatar City has increased by 14.3 percent. To further facilitate smooth bus operations, plans are in place to expand and construct new roads while enforcing priority lane regulations for buses.

Additionally, onboard surveillance cameras are now transmitting real-time footage to Video Surveillance Center, leading to a decrease in violations such as drivers using mobile phones, smoking, occupying incorrect lanes, or speeding while operating buses. Moreover, the number of passengers and the corresponding fare payments are being analyzed to ensure accuracy. LED screens have also been installed at bus stops, displaying real-time updates on bus locations and estimated arrival times.

We’re pleased to share that Landell Mills’ Communications division has been awarded a new contract titled Strategic Communication of the EU Delegation to Mongolia. The contract has a value of €749,650 and will run from January 2025 to March 2027.

The contract aims to raise awareness of the European Union as a trusted partner to Mongolia through large-scale online and offline public campaigns, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation of communication activities to assess effectiveness and impact.

The campaigns will target the general public in Mongolia, with a specific focus on youth. Landell Mills will also engage with the media, and key political and opinion leaders in the country, who will act as multipliers and support promotion of the campaigns.

Landell Mills’ team will be responsible for the development and implementation of a communication strategy and plan for the EU Delegation to Mongolia, which will involve:

the production and sharing of content across print, broadcast and digital channels.

the organisation of online and offline events.

the design of out-of-home activations.

TİKA has provided high-capacity scanners and computers to facilitate the digitization of 70,000 paper-based diplomatic documents that make up Mongolia’s foreign affairs history, currently preserved by the Directorate of Diplomatic Archives.

The project aims to safeguard Mongolia’s diplomatic records by digitizing centuries-old documents while enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of public services.

Gaadarmaa Ulziibat, Director of the Diplomatic Archives at Mongolia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized the importance of preserving these documents in a secure environment. He stated: “Thanks to TİKA’s valuable support, historical materials that serve as an open resource for diplomats, researchers, scientists, students, and citizens can now be preserved in a digital format. We extend our gratitude to the Turkish people and TİKA for this support.”

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of mortality in Mongolia, accounting for one in every five deaths, according to the country's National Cancer Center (NCC) on Tuesday.

"A total of 4,755 people died from cancer in Mongolia in 2024, accounting for one in five deaths in the country," the NCC said in a statement on the occasion of the World Cancer Day, which falls on Feb. 4 each year.

Additionally, the Asian country, with a population of 3.5 million, recorded 8,169 new cases of cancer in 2024, marking an increase of nearly 13 percent compared to the previous year. The NCC attributed this rise in part to improved early detection efforts.

While 80 percent of cancer patients in Mongolia were previously diagnosed at a late stage, the situation has improved, with the figure dropping to 65 percent, the center noted.

The most common types of cancer among Mongolians include liver, stomach, lung, cervical, and colorectal cancer, reflecting long-standing public health challenges

Finance Minister B.Javkhlan recently stated, “There is no such thing as a tax without burden. Tax burden is a relative concept.” This was his response to public concerns about the various taxes and fees imposed by the state, which many believe are excessive and place a heavy burden on citizens. The finance minister’s message suggests that the authorities are not prioritizing the well-being of citizens and plan to continue increasing taxes, further adding to the financial strain on the public.

In reality, every working Mongolian feels the weight of these taxes. For instance, a citizen pays 11.5 percent of their salary toward social insurance, while their employer contributes an additional 12.5 percent. On top of that, 10 percent of their salary is deducted as personal income tax. Additionally, a 10 percent value-added tax (VAT) is applied to the price of every good or product purchased.

For those living in the capital, every visit to a service organization comes with a two percent fee paid to the city office. Car owners face even more expenses, as they are required to pay three types of taxes and fees annually: road use tax, motor transport tax and air pollution tax. They must also purchase compulsory insurance. If a rural resident enters the city with a car, they are charged a daily fee of 5,000 MNT starting from the second day.

To make matters worse, the state also imposes a 10 percent tax on the interest earned from savings, further reducing the little money citizens have left after all these deductions. It’s clear that the financial burden on Mongolian citizens is significant and continues to grow.

Better to receive care than pay taxes

Citizens are not seeing the benefits of the numerous taxes they pay monthly and daily. Instead, their lives are becoming increasingly difficult and burdensome. A stark example of this growing frustration was the “Resign Government” demonstration organized by the Freedom Alliance Party on January 11 in the central square. Many people joined the protest, voicing their struggles with the heavy tax burden and criticizing the government’s policies and decisions as being detrimental to the well-being of citizens.

One citizen expressed their frustration online, writing, “How do you register for welfare? After working hard under immense stress, we end up paying taxes in the nine-figure range just to earn a modest income, and what’s left in our hand is barely enough to get by. The worst part is that we don’t get anything in return for the taxes we’ve paid. At this point, it’s better to stop paying taxes, register as poor, receive welfare and just give up.”

Another employer, referred to as Kh., shared his perspective on social media, stating, “After paying employees’ salaries, the remaining money goes straight to taxes. Don’t be fooled into thinking you’ll make a profit by starting a business. The state will take everything and push you toward bankruptcy.” These sentiments are not isolated; they reflect the harsh reality faced by the majority of Mongolians today.

Unfortunately, the authorities’ approach to taxation appears to be expanding rather than easing. Recently, Chairwoman of the Citizens’ Participation Union Party and representative of the Khan-Uul District City Council Ts.Oyungerel highlighted this issue in a public address. She revealed that the government is considering introducing a new tax called the “city center tax”, which would impose a daily fee of 27,500 MNT on individuals entering the city center. She warned, “The authorities are rushing to pass such a law. If the city center tax is implemented in Ulaanbaatar, everyone will effectively be fined. Very few people can afford this, meaning only the wealthy and powerful will be able to access the city center freely. We must fight to prevent the adoption of such a law.”

Ts.Oyungerel further criticized the government’s contradictory actions, stating, “When we see taxes being increased, it seems the government has no money. Yet, when we hear about large-scale projects, it appears they are spending lavishly. The reality is so far removed from their promises - it’s all lies.”

Budgets being spent on stoves or furniture

Of course, every country collects taxes. However, unlike Mongolia, in many nations, the taxes paid by citizens are used to improve their living conditions and make social services more accessible. Typically, taxes are increased only after citizens have achieved a certain level of income and a decent standard of living. In Mongolia, however, the taxes paid by citizens go into a large “pot” called the state budget and seem to “disappear” without trace. There are numerous examples of these funds being misused, not for the development of the country or its people, but rather to hinder progress.

Member of Parliament N.Nomtoibayar addressed this issue, saying, “Everything related to taxes, fines and fees has gone too far. It seems as though the government is pursuing a policy of stagnation rather than development. Businesses and organizations are shutting down, and young people are leaving the country in droves, often resorting to illegal work abroad. This path is unsustainable and will lead us nowhere.”

Indeed, it appears that taxpayer money is being used primarily to benefit those in power, such as funding lavish trips abroad for officials. A glaring example from this year’s state budget includes allocations of 111 billion MNT for foreign missions and 268 billion MNT for furniture and equipment. Meanwhile, only about 28 billion MNT of the taxes paid by citizens were allocated to distribute stoves to 32,000 households in the capital.

While the government claims to prioritize reducing emissions, its actions often contradict this goal. Instead of focusing on sustainable solutions, there seems to be a push for short-term measures that fail to address the root causes of environmental and economic challenges. This mismanagement of public funds and lack of coherent policy direction are exacerbating the struggles of ordinary citizens and hindering the nation’s development.

Are people ready to fund ‘bosses’?

This year, taxpayers will contribute a staggering 36.8 trillion MNT to the state budget. This means that citizens and businesses will essentially be “feeding” the authorities with this enormous sum. On top of that, an additional 3.8 trillion MNT will be required for the capital city’s budget, placing even greater pressure on individuals and organizations to work harder than ever before. The authorities have already approved historic increases in both the state and capital city budgets, setting a record high for this year. As a result, citizens, businesses and organizations will face unprecedented financial strain, leaving them with less money to support their families and meet their own needs.

There’s a well-known saying, “There is no such thing as state money - only taxpayers’ money.” In other words, it’s crucial to remember that the funds being spent by leaders do not belong to the state but to the taxpayers who earned them. Unfortunately, in Mongolia, the opposite seems to be true. Leaders are treating the money collected from citizens as if it were their own, spending it without accountability or regard for the public’s welfare. This mismanagement is a key reason why ordinary citizens are growing poorer, while taxes continue to rise and leaders with no real business acumen grow richer.

A clear example of this disparity can be seen in the labor market. According to the Mongolian Labor Market Supply and Demand Forecast for the Medium Term for 2024 through 2035, a study presented by the Ministry of Family, Labor and Social Protection last year, the average monthly salary of workers in Mongolia was projected to be 1.5 million MNT in 2022. However, the actual average salary was measured at just 731,100 MNT, which is less than half of the projected amount. The study also highlighted that real wages have not seen significant growth over the past decade, with little improvement since 2012. In simple terms, this means that the purchasing power of citizens has stagnated, leaving them unable to afford a better quality of life despite their hard work.

This troubling trend underscores a growing divide between the government’s priorities and the realities faced by ordinary citizens. While taxpayers are forced to shoulder an ever-increasing financial burden, the benefits of their contributions are not being reflected in improved public services, infrastructure, or living standards. Instead, the money seems to vanish into a system plagued by inefficiency, mismanagement, and a lack of transparency.

Unless there is a fundamental shift in how public funds are managed and allocated, the cycle of rising taxes, stagnant wages, and growing inequality will continue to erode the well-being of Mongolian citizens and hinder the nation’s progress. It is imperative for leaders to recognize that the money they spend belongs to the people and to prioritize policies that genuinely improve the lives of those who fund the state.

Lower incomes, better outcomes

In his New Year’s address on March 31, Prime Minister L.Oyun-Erdene highlighted positive economic projections for 2024, stating that the economy is expected to grow by five percent and foreign exchange reserves will reach 5.1 billion USD. He also mentioned that amendments to the tax and social insurance laws would be submitted to the spring session of Parliament, based on proposals from citizens and businesses. While these statements may sound promising, they appear to be more of a temporary attempt to placate citizens who are increasingly frustrated with the heavy tax burden rather than a genuine commitment to meaningful reform.

For instance, officials from the Ministry of Finance and other relevant agencies have been holding frequent meetings and discussions on reforming tax legislation. However, experts warn that these so-called reforms are merely superficial changes that fail to address the root causes of the problem. A.Munkhbold, president and researcher of the Mongolian Logistics Association, criticized the approach, saying, “It is true that the tax burden is high. To address this, a comprehensive socio-economic analysis must be conducted to determine the actual burden on citizens and businesses. Specifically, the impact on the middle class must be carefully considered. Our current tax system is a significant obstacle for citizens. Compared to countries with similar economies, our tax rates are excessively high. Honest taxpayers, or both citizens and businesses, have been suffering for a long time, while those who evade taxes and exploit loopholes thrive. It is unrealistic for the finance minister to claim that tax legislation can be updated within two months. From what he has said, it seems he is only proposing cosmetic changes. As the saying goes, ‘a dirty rabbit will have feces in its fur.’”

Indeed, the statements made by Finance Minister B.Javkhlan have done little to inspire confidence. One citizen aptly summarized the proposed solutions, noting, “They are trying to reduce the tax burden by making minor adjustments to VAT.” This observation seems particularly relevant, as the minister also mentioned plans to introduce VAT benefits for low-income groups. While this may sound like a step in the right direction, it raises a critical question, “Are Mongolian leaders effectively discouraging citizens from earning higher incomes by imposing greater financial pressure on those who do?”

This approach risks creating a system where citizens are penalized for striving to improve their livelihoods, while those who remain in low-income brackets receive limited relief. Such policies not only stifle economic ambition but also perpetuate inequality, as the middle class and honest taxpayers bear the brunt of the tax burden.

The government’s focus on superficial reforms and its failure to address the systemic issues within the tax system suggest a lack of genuine commitment to improving the lives of ordinary citizens. Without comprehensive, well-considered changes that prioritize fairness, transparency, and economic growth, the cycle of high taxes, stagnant wages, and public dissatisfaction will continue.

Ultimately, the government must recognize that its primary responsibility is to serve the people, not to burden them. Meaningful tax reform should aim to create a fair and equitable system that supports economic growth, rewards hard work and ensures that all citizens - not just a select few - can thrive. Until then, the promises of reform will remain little more than empty words, and the trust between the government and its citizens will continue to erode.

During its plenary session on January 23, 2025, the State Great Khural of Mongolia approved the draft Law on Supporting Planning, Development, and Promotion of Kharkhorum City, along with the accompanying proposals submitted by the Government in December 2024.

The draft Law focuses on facilitating the restoration and development of the historical Capital City of the Great Mongol Empire Kharkhorum while safeguarding Mongolia’s national history, cultural heritage, and nomadic civilization. Additionally, it aims at promoting sustainable tourism, ensuring balanced regional development, and establishing an environmentally friendly, comfortable urban environment. The draft law provides a legal framework for city planning, infrastructure development, and urban growth.

The draft Law regulates issues such as delegating certain municipal functions to private sector entities and integrating advanced information technology to develop a smart city model, ensuring transparency in city operations and development activities by maintaining open access to relevant information and establishing specific requirements for urban planning and defining principles to guide infrastructure development.

Specifically:

• Promoting diverse and sustainable tourism based on historical and cultural heritage, archaeological sites, tangible and intangible cultural assets, unique natural landscapes, and the nomadic way of life;

• Ensuring that city planning, infrastructure, and services align with the collective rights and interests of residents while fostering a human-centered, multi-nodal urban system that provides equitable access to public services;

• Designating at least 50 percent of the city’s residential zones, as defined by the general development plan, as green spaces;

• Ensuring that, depending on zoning regulations and population density, residents have access to schools, kindergartens, social and cultural institutions, healthcare services, recreational areas, public transportation hubs, parks, and commercial establishments within a distance of 300 to 800 meters from their place of residence;

• Supporting balanced regional development by aligning the new city’s expansion with Mongolia’s broader regional development strategy while fostering economic self-sufficiency within the Khangai region;

• Encouraging the use of energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable technologies;

• Establishing designated airspace for the operation of unmanned aerial vehicles (drones).

Mongolia will host the 17th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (COP17) in 2026. In anticipation of the Conference, the Business Council of Mongolia and the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change of Mongolia jointly organized the “Post-COP: Business and Investment Opportunities” event on January 30, 2024.

The event brought together representatives from the government, private sector, and international organizations to discuss climate policy, green financing, and carbon market development, as well as to exchange views on Mongolia’s goals on climate change and cooperation with the international community. In addition, scholars, researchers, and experts who have worked or are currently working in environment and climate change attended the discussions to get acquainted with national and international trends and situations.

By hosting COP17, Mongolia will demonstrate its leadership in mitigating global challenges caused by climate change, particularly desertification and the transition to renewable energy, noted B. Javkhlan, Advisor to the President of Mongolia for Project Coordination and Civil Society Policy, during the panel discussion she chaired. She also provided an international perspective on climate investment trends following COP29. Ms. Javkhlan emphasized the need for Mongolia to foster dialogue with its international partners to enhance climate investment, create green jobs, and build a sustainable future.

Ambassador of Australia to Mongolia Katie Smith, Ambassador of the European Union to Mongolia Ina Marciulionyte, Ambassador of the Italian Republic to Mongolia Piccarreta Giovanna, and Director of the Preparatory Office for COP17 UNCCD under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia Ambassador-at-Large N. Chimguundari took part in the event and shared their insights on green finance, sustainability initiatives and cross-border cooperation.

Desertification, environmental degradation, and climate change are not just environmental concerns but cross-sectoral challenges that impact all nations, not just a single country. Given the critical need for collective action, countries are working together to find solutions, address these challenges, and adapt to the changing environment.

For Mongolia, the most pressing environmental issues include climate change, soil degradation, yellow dust storms, and desertification. Protecting the environment and accelerating green development have become national priorities. In particular, under the Sustainable Development Goals, Mongolia is obliged to fulfill its commitments by 2030.

Moreover, nationally, one of the key solutions to improve the lives of citizens, businesses, and residents is to protect the environment and intensify green development.

The 29th Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change was held in Baku, Azerbaijan, in November 2024, and world leaders agreed to increase climate finance. Addressing this conference, President of Mongolia Khurelsukh Ukhnaa highlighted Mongolia’s climate finance and business environment reforms.

Mongolia has committed to reducing total greenhouse gas emissions to 22.7 percent by 2030 and minimizing the gap between greenhouse gas emissions and removals by 2050. “To successfully fulfill its commitments under the Paris Agreement, Mongolia needs financing equal to approximately 50 percent of its GDP. In this regard, to enhance financing and investment in renewable energy, green agriculture, and forestry, our country is undertaking a comprehensive reform aimed at improving the legal and business environment,” emphasized President Khurelsukh.

Developed countries have agreed to increase their climate finance commitment to developing countries from the previous goal of USD 100 billion annually to a new target of USD 300 billion annually by 2035, effectively tripling the previous amount.

"A notable amount of climate finance can be brought into Mongolia if the country moves towards a green economy with proper plans, policies, and strategies," emphasized Minister of Environment and Climate Change of Mongolia Odontuya Saldan in her interview after the event. During the discussions, the Minister noted the exigent need for increased investment and strengthened public sector capacity to combat climate change.

In Mongolia, the energy, agriculture, and construction sectors are considered to be the biggest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation. Therefore, it is essential to promptly transition these sectors into green sectors with low environmental impact.

Mongolia has adopted a sustainable finance roadmap, with the financial sector committing to increasing green loans to 10 percent of the total loan portfolio. Additionally, international best practices for boosting environmental sector financing are being introduced in Mongolia. One such initiative is the Project Finance for Permanency, launched in collaboration with The Nature Conservancy and supported by the President of Mongolia. So far, over USD 70 million in grants have been secured from international investors, with the potential to raise an additional USD 100 million by 2030, stated Davaadalai Batsuuri, Economic Policy Advisor to the President of Mongolia, in an interview with MONTSAME Mongolian National News Agency.

The working group responsible for organizing the general oversight hearing on air pollution has decided to host a series of discussions. As part of this initiative, the fourth discussion titled "Smoke Issue: Technological Solutions for Stoves and Fuels" was held on January 31 at the State Palace.

The discussion was chaired by J.Zoljargal, a member of the parliament (MP) and Chairman of the Standing Committee on Innovation and Digital Policy. In his opening remarks, he noted that the working group, established by the Standing Committee on Environment, Food, and Agriculture of the Parliament, is holding the discussion in accordance with Article 29.2.4 of the Law on Parliamentary Oversight. The event focused on technological solutions for stoves and fuels as part of the broader general oversight hearing on air pollution and smog. The discussion was attended by MPs, including R.Batbold, G.Ganbaatar, J.Zoljargal, B.Munkhsoyol, O.Saranchuluun, J.Chinburen, B.Uyanga, and 53 participants, including citizens and business representatives.

The discussion was opened by the head of the working group, J.Chinburen. In his address, he highlighted the success of the previous three discussions, emphasizing their importance in engaging citizens and non-governmental organizations with senior officials from state agencies and ministries. These discussions aimed to address concerns, answer questions, and provide clear information. He also mentioned that the working group placed significant importance on listening to citizens’ opinions and finding practical solutions. The ideas and suggestions shared by participants during the discussion will be documented and forwarded to the general oversight hearing on Air Pollution and Emissions, as well as the Scientific Council of the National Committee for Environmental Pollution Reduction. J.Chinburen assured that if any of the suggestions are deemed viable and effective, they would be passed on to the working group for further action. Following the general oversight hearing, the parliament will issue a resolution to the government on feasible and research-backed issues, with participants being able to submit written opinions.

The discussion continued with 27 individuals, representing businesses and organizations, presenting stove and fuel technology solutions. Participants explored whether Mongolia has a specialized policy or legal framework in place to reduce emissions while the world shifts to new gas fuels, as well as whether the infrastructure is prepared for such a transition. Presentations also covered renewable energy solutions, such as converting solar heat into both heat and electricity, green energy transitions, developing distributed sources for electricity and heat supply, and the processing of clean coal. Furthermore, participants introduced technological solutions for insulating windows, floors, and walls of homes using improved solid fuels and nanotechnology, aiming to reduce air pollution and ensure no adverse health impacts.

For example, Mongolian consulting engineer D.Altai emphasized that gas fuel technology is critical to addressing air pollution. He noted that research suggests Mongolia is likely to use three types of gas fuels: coal-derived gas, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and natural or methane gas. While the LPG sector has had success globally, its market is limited due to pricing and import factors. Natural gas production initiatives are emerging, but Russia remains the only country from which Mongolia can import this gas, and its infrastructure and economic efficiency remain concerns. Exploration of methane gas from coal deposits is ongoing, though it will take five years before reserves can be extracted and used. Alta stressed the importance of preparing consumers for this transition and building the necessary infrastructure.

In a presentation on briquettes that are safe for human health and the environment, J.Batbold, a consulting engineer from “Ecobriquette” LLC, discussed their company’s four types of briquettes: semi-coke-soot mixture biofuel, coal, coal-soot mixture, and single sawdust. He assured that these briquettes do not emit fumes or pose health risks and are recommended as a short-term solution to reduce emissions. External studies have confirmed that these bio-briquettes meet international standards.

Moreover, Mongolian consulting engineer Ts.Beejin proposed establishing a "Partial Heat Supply for Residential Districts" center for heat production, testing, and innovation in the ger district. He explained that proper testing of new products and technologies in laboratory settings is critical before they are introduced to the market. He recommended that a unified testing center be created for better results.

Some participants suggested that the simplest way to reduce smoke would be to start by insulating homes and buildings and presented their ideas for improving building insulation.

External researcher G.Tsovoodavaa, Head of the Department of Architecture at the University of Science and Technology, noted that focusing solely on stoves and fuels may be too narrow. He advocated for prioritizing building insulation, given the extensive research in this area, which could lead to greater energy savings and improved efficiency in existing buildings.

Parliament member B.Uyanga emphasized the importance of integrating the presented technological solutions and delivering them to relevant state organizations and officials. Meanwhile, parliament member O.Saranchuluun suggested that classifying the solutions by household consumption, production levels, consumer safety, cost, and suitability for human physical abilities would increase their influence on decision-making.

In closing, J.Zoljargal, the Chairman of the Standing Committee on Innovation and Digital Policy, expressed that the discussion had focused on practical, innovative solutions. He pointed out that while the Mongolian government must address urgent issues, it should not test unproven technologies on the public. He called for the development and introduction of new ideas and solutions that are low-risk or proven safe. He also stated that the working group would work in a practical way to support these new ideas and technological solutions.

A polyglot, she speaks English, Russian and Mongolian, among other languages, and was Seagal’s translator on a film fundraising tour of her country in 2001; they married in 2009

Steven Seagal is something of a renaissance man. Known for his slick martial-arts skills as well as his imposing and stoic on-screen persona, Seagal is one of the most recognisable action stars in show business, having appeared in a slew of high-octane films since his debut in 1988’s Above the Law. However, the Michigan-born aikido master also has several other talents and interests.

Per his IMDB page, the Hard to Kill star, 72, is also a writer, producer and even musician, having released two studio albums. Beyond his career in entertainment, the Under Siege actor, a devout Buddhist, has been a reserve deputy sheriff and a vocal activist for a number of causes: in 2003, for example, he petitioned Thailand’s prime minister, Thaksin Shinawatra, to abolish the country’s practice of using elephants for entertainment.

Besides his long and varied career, what about his personal life? The On Deadly Ground actor has seven children and is now married to Erdenetuya Batsukh. So what do we know about Erdenetuya, who also goes by Elle? Let’s take a closer look.

As reported by People, Batsukh is a Mongolian professional dancer who, when seen in public, is often in traditional outfits. In her youth, she trained at educational centre the Children’s Palace in capital Ulaanbaatar.

She is said to have become one of the country’s best dancers, working at the Mongolian State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet. According to news.mn, Batsukh’s dancing prowess has been recognised at dance competitions throughout her career, and she has won several accolades.

Per People, Batsukh, whose age hasn’t been publicised, met the Fire Down Below star in 2001 when he was visiting Mongolia on a fundraising tour, trying to garner interest in a film about the founder of the Mongol empire, Genghis Khan.

A polyglot who speaks several languages, including English and Russian as well as her native Mongolian, Batsukh was a translator and interpreter. Per Biography Host, she first worked with her future husband as an interpreter, then as an assistant. While it was strictly professional at first, their relationship ultimately became more than that.

Although no photos of their nuptials have been released to the public and they choose to keep their personal life private, People reported that the couple married in 2009.

In September that year they welcomed their only child, son Kunzang.

By the time he met Batsukh, Seagal had been married three times: to Miyako Fujitani, the Japanese daughter of an aikido master, in 1974; to actress Adrienne Larussa in 1984; and in 1987 to his Hard to Kill co-star Kelly LeBrock.

Though Batsukh’s marriage to the Executive Decision actor is hardly his first, it’s his longest and it’s clear that the bond the couple share is strong. In a 2018 post on Seagal’s Instagram account, Batsukh left a heartfelt message wishing her husband a happy birthday and expressing her admiration for him.

“My darling husband,” the message reads, “I couldn’t be more proud of you today for having lived such a wonderful life where you have achieved and accomplished so much in just one lifetime and you did it all with honour, love and truthfulness! Men like you are rare this day and age who are courageous enough to speak the truth and stand for the right, and compassionate enough to risk your life to fight evil! You protect and heal the weak and the sick and you teach and lead the ignorant and the lost. Your true spirit, deep wisdom and undying love and devotion to mankind will always shine through darkness, jealousy and hatred! … Wishing you a very Happy Birthday my love!

Your devoted wife, Erdenetuya Seagal.”

In addition to being a professional dancer, translator and interpreter, Batsukh has added “actress” to her impressive résumé. In the 2019 action thriller General Commander, she appeared alongside her husband in the role of Tuya Alexander.

By Saul Lipchik