Statement by: James Larsen, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Australia to the United Nations
As delivered

Thank you Chair.

Australia is extremely concerned by the continuing suffering of the Afghan people and the ongoing human rights abuses committed by the de facto authorities including egregious edicts which systematically discriminate against women and girls.

Australia is alarmed by credible reports of summary executions, enforced disappearances, widespread arbitrary detention, torture and ill treatment of women and girls, ethnic, religious and other minorities, and civil society.

The Taliban has rejected every call to reverse its actions even as Afghanistan is facing one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.

Australia urges the Taliban to ensure the independence, safety and freedom of movement of all humanitarian staff, including women workers.

We ask: what further actions can the international community take to persuade the Taliban of the essential role of women and girls, minority groups and civil society in achieving the peace, security and prosperity of all of Afghanistan?