Taliban’s pursuit of ‘Islamic vision’ erodes freedoms in Afghanistan: Security Council
Meet the ambassadors at Security CouncilRoza Otunbayeva, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Afghanistan, painted a grim picture of escalating human rights violations, declining freedoms and growing humanitarian challenges .
“It has now been nearly 1,200 days that girls have not had access to formal education after sixth gradewith women and girls facing gradual eradication from almost every level of society,” she speak.
A recent decree banning women from studying at medical institutes could further devastate the country’s healthcare system, causing deadly impacts not only on women and girls but also on with both men and boys.
“I have strongly urged the authorities on the ground to reconsider,” she added.
Roza Otunbayeva (on screen), Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Afghanistan and Head of the United Nations Support Mission in Afghanistan, briefs the Security Council.
Erosion of freedom
Ms. Otunbayeva said that the Taliban government’s de facto enforcement of the so-called “Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice” law has increased the erosion of basic freedoms, noting that surveillance Surveillance by “inspectors” has expanded to public spaces, NGO offices, mosques, markets and even weddings.
She said: “Stricter discrimination against women in business activities has further limited their livelihoods and mental health, causing serious consequences for their families, especially especially children”.
Additionally, women without an accompanying male guardian, or mahram, face restrictions on travel and access to health care, while men are increasingly targeted for non-compliance. adhere to certain grooming standards, such as shaving or getting a “Western-style” haircut.
Media restrictions
Ms Otunbayeva further highlighted the impact of the crackdown on the media and the work of journalists, with implications for wider society.
“We have documented a pattern of ever-widening restrictions on the media, undermining the ability of journalists and communications workers to serve as the foundation of a an informed, inclusive, vibrant and developed society. United Nations Support Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA).
“The space for public debate, including on key issues such as the rights of women and girls, continues to shrink. introduce restrictions on political parties and civil society activities.”
Humanitarian crisis
Also briefing the Council, United Nations relief chief Tom Fletcher pointed out that Afghanistan remains in the grip of a staggering humanitarian crisis.
Nearly half of Afghans live in poverty and this year, extreme weather events have devastated livelihoods, displacing thousands and destroying livestock, crops and homes.
Furthermore, basic services across the country are under significant strain, with the majority of the population lacking access to healthcare.
Hunger and food insecurity are also widespread, affecting one-third of the population, while malnutrition rates have reached alarming levels and continue to rise.
“Overall, half the population needs assistance, making Afghanistan the second largest humanitarian crisis in the world, behind only Sudan,” Mr. Fletcher said, stressing that international assistance remains vital. important.
Call to action
He called on the Security Council to act on three key points, starting with increased funding for humanitarian activities and international assistance to reduce aid impediments and restrictive measures, in particular especially for women.
He also called for investment and support for Afghans beyond humanitarian assistance, in areas such as agriculture, health and other vital basic services.
“Afghans face enormous challenges. But they did not lose hopehe said.
“They have tirelessly fought for their rights, freedoms and futures and neither should we. As they get through this difficult period, we must continue to support them with international solidarity and genuine humanity.”
