Australia thanks you for your investigative work in Afghanistan.

Australia is extremely concerned about the report’s findings of widespread and systematic human rights abuses of women and girls, ethnic and religious minorities, and political opponents over the past year. We are particularly concerned at the significant restrictions on women and girls’ human rights.

The Taliban’s negligence in providing the most basic services to Afghans has also severely impacted the enjoyment of their human rights, driving a severe and deepening humanitarian crisis.

The Taliban has failed to deliver on its commitments to uphold human rights. Human rights abuses need to be investigated and the Taliban must be held accountable for their actions. International accountability efforts should be sustainable, achievable, and gender-responsive, and provide redress for survivors and victims.

The international community must ensure that accountability efforts promote coordination amongst existing mechanisms and avoid duplication with the work of the International Criminal Court.

What message would you have for those in the room today who have told us over the last year that time and patience is needed before expecting better from the Taliban?

Thank you.