Warning: Trying to access array offset on value of type bool in /home/rwihemsi/rwi.lu.se/wp-content/plugins/insert-php/includes/class.execute.snippet.php(655) : eval()'d code on line 27
Warning: Trying to access array offset on value of type bool in /home/rwihemsi/rwi.lu.se/wp-content/plugins/insert-php/includes/class.execute.snippet.php(655) : eval()'d code on line 28
By Richard Bennett
Three years after the Taliban seized power, the people of Afghanistan continue to suffer a deepening human rights, humanitarian and political crisis. The de facto authorities have further entrenched and intensified their institutionalized system of gender oppression and exclusion of women and girls, have repressed civil society and the media and have disregarded principles of justice, non-discrimination, equality and the rule of law. Despite this, the people of Afghanistan continue to demonstrate enormous courage and determination. The Special Rapporteur has spoken with girls and young women living in Afghanistan who are defying the Taliban to access education, journalists who are risking their safety and security to report on human rights violations, women’s rights advocates who are documenting sexual and gender-based violence and humanitarian workers who are working tirelessly to provide assistance amid dwindling international funding. Their bravery and perseverance must be met with increased protection, solidarity and support. As noted in previous reports, Afghanistan has committed to specific obligations as a party to key international human rights treaties. The de facto authorities maintain effective control over the country and are therefore responsible for fulfilling these obligations, regardless of whether there is recognition of a formal change of government. The Special Rapporteur reminds the de facto authorities that upholding these obligations entails not only refraining from violations, but also creating an environment where human rights are respected. This includes establishing and maintaining institutions, laws and policies that ensure the rule of law and promote accountability.
Keywords: Gender oppression, Human rights crisis, Civil society repression, Courage and resistance, International obligations, Rule of law and accountability