UN Envoy Urges Global Support as Afghanistan Faces Deepening Human Rights Crisis
Richard Bennett, the UN Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in Afghanistan, has warned that the country faces a severe human rights crisis that could worsen without consistent international support. His remarks came at the end of a visit to Doha, where he met with Qatari officials and representatives of international organizations from December 1 to 4.
During the trip, Bennett held discussions with Qatari authorities, Afghan civil society activists, and members of the international community concerning the ongoing human rights crisis in Afghanistan. He expressed gratitude for Qatar’s involvement in areas such as education, healthcare, humanitarian aid, and poverty alleviation, adding that the country could play a significant role in fostering inclusive peace in Afghanistan.
Bennett noted that Qatari officials also voiced deep concern over the Taliban’s severe restrictions, particularly those targeting women and girls. He stressed that international engagement with the Taliban must be rooted in a strong commitment to human rights, and that the voices of women and victims of violence must be included in any dialogue.
Coinciding with the global campaign “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence,” Bennett stated that Afghanistan exemplifies structural violence against women. He highlighted how women are systematically and deliberately denied basic rights such as access to education, employment, justice, and healthcare.
He expressed serious concern over reports of new instances of violence against women, including the unexplained death of a young bride in Kabul, and called for an immediate, transparent, and independent investigation into the case.
Bennett also condemned a public execution carried out by the Taliban in Khost province, which took place in front of thousands of spectators, including minors. He labeled the act as “cruel, inhuman, and degrading,” emphasizing that involving children in such events is utterly unacceptable.
He voiced apprehension about the forced return of Afghan refugees from neighboring countries and some European nations, noting that millions have been sent back without adequate preparation and now face risks including arrest, unemployment, and serious threats—especially toward women.
Bennett urged countries to respect the international principle of non-refoulement and to cease forced deportations. He warned that cuts to refugee resettlement programs—particularly the United States’ suspension of Afghan refugee admissions—have placed vulnerable families at grave risk.
As part of his visit, Bennett also met with Hazara families in Ghazni province who fear losing their homes due to court rulings. He underscored the importance of these families having access to fair legal proceedings and legal services.
In conclusion, Bennett said that despite facing threats and risks, the Afghans he spoke with continue to fight for human dignity and human rights. He emphasized that the international community has a responsibility to stand with them and not abandon them.
