Afghanistan Peace Campaign
Over 10 countries condemned Afghanistan’s human rights violations, urging international accountability and justice, especially for women, vulnerable groups, and marginalized communities.
Representatives from over 10 countries condemned ongoing human rights violations in Afghanistan, particularly against women, during the 59th session of the UN Human Rights Council held on June 16, 2025. The meeting featured a detailed briefing by Richard Bennett, the UN Special Rapporteur for Afghanistan, who presented his latest report focusing on justice access and the protection of women and girls.
Countries including Canada, Italy, Indonesia, Qatar, Ireland, South Africa, and Switzerland voiced deep concerns about the systematic suppression of women’s rights and gender-based violence under the Taliban regime. Delegates called for greater international accountability and urged the Taliban to cease public executions and oppressive policies.
Several member states reaffirmed their support for Afghanistan’s women and girls, pledging assistance in the areas of education and capacity-building. Some nations also highlighted the need for long-term strategies to empower Afghanistan civil society actors and human rights defenders.
Bennett’s report emphasized that the Taliban’s judicial system has facilitated widespread repression, eliminating avenues for women to seek justice. He highlighted the expansion of gender-based discrimination, forced marriages, and bans on education and employment for women and girls as core concerns.
Speakers also raised alarms about the safety and rights of other marginalized groups in Afghanistan, including LGBTQ+ individuals, the Hazara community, and other religious minorities. Multiple representatives stressed the importance of protecting these vulnerable populations from state-sponsored persecution.
This session reflected growing global frustration over the Taliban’s disregard for international human rights obligations. The consensus was clear: failure to uphold the rights of women and vuneriable groups is a breach of fundamental human values and must not go unchallenged.
Countries and international organizations are expected to increase diplomatic pressure, expand humanitarian aid targeting women and vulnerable communities, and document violations for potential international legal action. As the situation worsens, the need for coordinated global advocacy and support for Afghanistan’s citizens becomes increasingly urgent.