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KABUL – Afghanistan’s Taliban regime faced scathing criticism over its treatment of women and human rights violations during a high-stakes session at the United Nations Human Rights Council. Despite their absence, the Taliban’s policies were laid bare as representatives from 76 nations seized the floor to voice concerns.
The United States led the charge, accusing the Taliban of systematically depriving women and girls of their fundamental rights. Questions loomed large about holding perpetrators accountable for egregious abuses, especially targeting women and girls. Additionally, the U.S. highlighted escalating threats against LGBTQ persons since the Taliban seized power in 2021.
In an unprecedented move, Afghanistan was represented by an ambassador appointed by the ousted U.S.-backed government, further highlighting the diplomatic isolation of the Taliban regime. Britain and Belgium echoed concerns about the Taliban’s treatment of women, while numerous other nations lined up to scrutinize the regime’s actions.
The Taliban’s defense rested on their interpretation of Islamic law, claiming to respect rights within its confines. However, since their resurgence, they have enforced regressive policies, including barring most girls from education and women from employment opportunities. Restrictive measures extended to closing beauty salons, curtailing female mobility, and denying women access to public spaces without a male guardian.
The U.N. Human Rights Council’s peer review mechanism underscores the gravity of the situation, with recommendations potentially shaping international discourse and catalyzing calls for reform. While the Taliban’s absence may have been conspicuous, the global community’s unified condemnation signals a resolute stance against human rights violations. As the world watches, the pressure mounts for the Taliban to heed the calls for change and uphold the dignity and rights of all Afghan citizens.
