UN Human Rights Council Universal Periodic Review – 46th Session

Universal Periodic Review of Afghanistan

29 April 2024

Statement by Australia

Thank you, Vice President.

Australia is gravely concerned that human rights have severely regressed under Taliban rule, and calls on Afghanistan to comply with its obligations under international human rights law.

Australia condemns the systematic discrimination of women and girls and efforts to erase them from public life. We note the Special Rapporteur's findings this may amount to gender persecution.

Australia is gravely concerned by ongoing harassment and attacks targeting ethnic and religious minorities, particularly Hazara.

Australia calls for an end to executions and public punishments.

Australia recommends Afghanistan:

1. Reverse immediately all restrictions on the human rights of women and girls.
2. Promote and protect the human rights of minorities.
3. Reinstate a moratorium on executions and abolish the death penalty.