PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 55 – UK Statement on Afghanistan [March 2024]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 1 March 2024.

UK Statement for Interactive Dialogue with Special Rapporteur on Afghanistan.

Thank you, Mr Vice President,

Special Rapporteur,

Let me start by reaffirming the UK’s full support for your mandate.

The Taliban’s disregard for the human rights of women and girls is unparalleled in the world. Two and a half years on, women and girls still cannot work. They cannot move, speak, or live freely. Girls continue to be banned from attending school above grade 6, and women from university. Women and girls have been arrested for not complying with the Taliban’s strict dress codes, many of whom have been deprived of their liberty.

This widespread and institutionalised discrimination is further compounded by household poverty, food insecurity, and lack of access to basic services.

We also remain concerned by the increase in attacks against the Hazara community and we echo the call from UNAMA for investigations to take place.

The international community, including those of us here in Geneva, must stay committed to the people of Afghanistan. The United Kingdom continues to stand with the people of Afghanistan, particularly the women and girls and their families who are suffering because of the devastating situation of human rights and dire humanitarian situation in Afghanistan.

Special Rapporteur,

How can we best support you to continue to fulfil your mandate, particularly with respect to the situation of women and girls in Afghanistan?