CANZ Joint Statement on Afghanistan

June 18, 2024

We present this statement on behalf of Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, and extend our thanks to the Special Rapporteur for his report and the valuable work that he and his team do every day.

The Taliban’s complete disrespect for human rights has become pervasive to the point of ubiquity.

We remain gravely concerned by the ongoing institutionalized discrimination, segregation, human rights violations and abuses perpetrated against women and girls in Afghanistan. Women and girls continue to be denied access to education, employment, and freedom of movement. The accounts in the SR’s reporting of murder, enforced disappearances, torture, beatings, forced marriage, rape and other forms of sexual and gendered violence, are more than a distress signal – they are a loud warning of possible crimes against humanity. 

The Taliban’s incessant campaign of oppression extends to all people they deem unacceptable, to women and girls, the LGBTQIA+ community, and ethnic and religious minorities. They are forcefully prevented from participating fully, equally and meaningfully in public life and increasingly face public corporal punishment. 

We condemn the disregard for the human rights and dignity of Afghan women and girls and we remain committed to giving platform to their voices, and defending their rights. 

Question: Mr. Special Rapporteur, how can we amplify the voices of women and girls in all discussions related to the future of their country?