Norway has warned that Taliban policies and restrictions in Afghanistan could have long-term consequences for an entire generation of Afghan children.
Speaking at the 63rd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, Tor Midtgaard C. Andersen, Norway’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office in Geneva, criticized the Taliban’s intensified enforcement of dress-related laws and the issuance of new decrees.
Andersen said the measures have further deepened discrimination against Afghan citizens. He specifically referred to Taliban Decree No. 18, arguing that it creates conditions that could facilitate child marriage.
Norway’s representative also condemned punishments imposed by the Taliban, describing them as “cruel, inhuman, and degrading.” He criticized restrictions on freedom of expression and the pressure faced by journalists, human rights defenders and civil society organizations.
Andersen praised Afghan youth for their resilience, creativity and efforts to defend their rights despite growing restrictions. He noted that many young Afghans face significant personal risks while speaking out or working to protect fundamental freedoms.
He stressed that the international community must not ignore Afghanistan, warning that historical experience shows that neglecting the country can have dangerous consequences for the wider world.
Andersen called for greater engagement with individuals and groups inside Afghanistan and urged the international community to find practical ways to support them.
He also expressed Norway’s support for measures aimed at activating an independent investigative mechanism on Afghanistan and reaffirmed the country’s continued backing for the mandate of the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Afghanistan.