UN Calls for Taliban to Uphold Human Rights in Afghanistan

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The United Nations has issued a stern call to the Taliban leadership in Afghanistan, urging them to adhere to international human rights standards, particularly following reports of curtailing women’s education in fields like medicine.

This appeal comes amidst growing concerns over reports suggesting the suspension of medical education for women and girls under the current regime. The suspension, allegedly ordered by Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, remains unverified by the authorities, who have yet to issue a formal response to these allegations.

Roza Otunbayeva, head of the UN mission in Afghanistan, highlighted the ongoing erosion of human rights, with a specific focus on systemic discrimination against women and girls. Otunbayeva stated, ‘Regrettably, we continue to see the opposite unfold in Afghanistan.’ The restrictions placed on women extend beyond education, affecting their participation in most sectors of daily and public life.

The UN’s advocacy for human rights ties into the theme of this year’s International Human Rights Day, which emphasizes empowering individuals to build a better future. However, the current situation in Afghanistan represents a stark contrast, as indicated by the latest restrictions impacting women and girls.

Fiona Frazer, a representative of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights in Afghanistan, warned that denying rights to Afghan women and girls signifies a deliberate failure to safeguard the well-being of all citizens. This has been met with routine dismissals from Taliban authorities, who often label such criticism as external interference.

In defense of their policies, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid spoke on state-run media, asserting that the reduced number of casualties is evidence of their commitment to human rights. Mujahid further stated that the rights of Afghans were upheld by judicial and institutional services.

Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani, addressing a madrassa in Kabul, indicated a willingness to portray a more pragmatic image of the leadership. Haqqani, while maintaining an adherence to religious principles, acknowledged the need for leaders not to impose their views rigidly, suggesting a potentially softer stance towards governance.

Haqqani’s recent speeches appear to reflect an awareness of Afghanistan’s socio-economic challenges, despite his notoriety for past violent actions against the former Western-backed government in Afghanistan. This dual narrative reaffirms the complexities within the Taliban’s administration.

The UN’s call for the Taliban to embrace international human rights standards underscores the urgent need for inclusive and equitable governance in Afghanistan. Without a commitment to protecting the rights of all citizens, particularly women and girls, the country’s path to prosperity remains fraught with obstacles.

Source: Apnews

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