A year on since the Taliban took control of Kabul, Australia remains gravely concerned at the increasing abuse of women and girls’ human rights.

Women and girls’ participation and leadership are fundamental for stability in Afghanistan. This will not be possible until the Taliban’s regressive restrictions on women and girls’ freedom of movement and participation are removed. Women are being robbed of their livelihoods and girls are being excluded from attending secondary schools, and this must change.

Australia is deeply concerned by the Taliban’s violent repression at a recent peaceful protest by women in Kabul.

The international community has been consistent in its calls for the Taliban to respect and uphold the human rights of Afghan women and girls. Again, we call on the Taliban to immediately remove restrictions on women and girls’ freedom of movement and rights to work and education.

Given the vital contribution of women and girls to the economy, society and families of Afghanistan, and its national well-being, what steps can be taken to assist the Taliban to recognise, and not hide, its greatest national strength?