United Nations Special Rapporteur on Afghanistan Richard Bennett has described the human rights situation in Afghanistan as alarming, warning about increasing restrictions and repression under Taliban rule.
Speaking during a session of the UN Human Rights Council on Monday, September 7, Bennett said the Taliban had introduced new laws and regulations that have further expanded restrictions on people in Afghanistan.
According to Bennett, the measures have contributed to a worsening human rights environment in the country. He raised concerns about the impact of Taliban policies on fundamental freedoms and the daily lives of Afghan citizens.
Since returning to power in August 2021, the Taliban has introduced a series of laws, regulations and decrees governing social and public life. UN officials and international rights organizations have repeatedly raised concerns over restrictions affecting women, girls and other sections of Afghan society.
Bennett’s latest comments come as the international community continues to monitor Afghanistan’s human rights situation. The UN has repeatedly called on the Taliban to respect fundamental rights and freedoms and to ensure that Afghan women and girls can participate fully in education, employment and public life.
The Special Rapporteur’s assessment adds to growing international concerns over the direction of human rights in Afghanistan. While the Taliban authorities maintain that their policies are based on their interpretation of Islamic law and Afghan culture, critics argue that several measures have severely limited basic rights and freedoms.
The Human Rights Council is expected to continue monitoring developments in Afghanistan as concerns over restrictions, repression and accountability remain at the center of international attention.