In a firm denunciation, the European Union (EU) has condemned the Taliban’s persistent human rights breaches in Afghanistan, warning that their policies of gender discrimination may qualify as gender persecution—a severe offence under the Rome Statute, which Afghanistan adheres to. Addressing the U.N. Human Rights Council in Geneva, the EU highlighted concerns about the Taliban’s oppressive Policies of Vice and Virtue (PVPV) Law, which exacerbates discrimination and institutionalises gender-based violence.
The EU referenced U.N. Special Rapporteur Richard Bennett’s recent findings, asserting that the PVPV law reinforces the Taliban’s ideological stance, tightening restrictions on education, freedom of expression, movement, peaceful assembly, and employment, particularly for women and girls. This oppressive landscape amplifies fears as the EU urged the Taliban to uphold Afghanistan’s international commitments under pivotal treaties, including CEDAW and the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC).
Addressing the broader spectrum of human rights, the EU expressed grave concerns over the plight of ethnic and religious minorities, notably the Hazara community, as well as LGBTI individuals, who face intensified persecution under Taliban governance. The EU reaffirmed its support for the U.N. Special Rapporteur and UNAMA, pushing for deeper insights into the societal implications of the PVPV law and the enforcement roles assigned to men.
This declaration comes amid increasing calls for the international community to implement robust accountability measures aimed at curbing ongoing human rights violations in Afghanistan, signalling a growing urgency for unified action against systemic oppression under the Taliban regime.
The European Union has vocally condemned the Taliban’s systematic human rights violations in Afghanistan at the U.N. Human Rights Council, warning that gender discrimination could qualify as gender persecution. The PVPV Law represents an ideological cornerstone for the Taliban’s oppressive policies, fostering extreme discrimination against women and ethnic minorities. The EU urges compliance with international legal obligations, advocating for stronger accountability measures to counteract ongoing abuses and support vulnerable groups.
The EU’s strong condemnation of the Taliban’s human rights violations highlights the pressing need for accountability and protection of vulnerable populations in Afghanistan. As the international community calls for action, the situation of women, ethnic and religious minorities, and LGBTI individuals remains critical. The EU’s advocacy for adherence to international treaties underlines the urgency of restoring human rights in the country, reminding us that vigilance is needed to safeguard fundamental freedoms.
Original Source: amu.tv
