Global Rights Group Urges Taliban To Address Human Rights Abuses In Afghanistan

The Global Centre for the Responsibility to Protect has released a report highlighting systematic human rights violations in Afghanistan by the Taliban.

The Centre emphasises that normalising relations with the Taliban should be contingent upon adherence to human rights and women's rights in Afghanistan.

The report criticises the Taliban's repressive decrees against women and girls, noting that over fifty decrees have drastically curtailed freedom of thought, expression, and employment opportunities. Additionally, the report underscores the ongoing threat to civilians from other armed extremist groups in the region, referencing UN data that over 3,774 civilians have been killed or injured between August 15, 2021 and May 30, 2023.

It also details the abuse and violence against women and girls, including the Hazara community, following arbitrary detentions by the Taliban.

The report mentions attacks on Shiite sites, highlighting the systematic targeting of ethnic and religious minorities, particularly Shiite Hazaras. This targeting underscores the Taliban's failure or reluctance to protect vulnerable groups.

The Centre expressed concern over the absence of independent national bodies to document human rights violations, following the dismantling of crucial institutions like the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission.

The report called on the Taliban to fulfil all international human rights obligations and suggested that they undertake serious measures to prevent further human rights violations. Additionally, it stresses on the importance of Taliban cooperation with the UN Special Rapporteur and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.