On 28 February 2025, the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) presented a stark depiction of the human rights crisis in Afghanistan at the UN Human Rights Council. They commended the Special Rapporteur for unveiling the Taliban’s systemic oppression, particularly through the Law on the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice which has intensified gender-based discrimination and effectively barred women from public life.
Afghanistan’s civil society is now a shadow of its former self; activists and journalists face perilous choices—either flee or confront grave dangers including arbitrary arrests and torture. Despite a wealth of documented abuses, resembling crimes against humanity, the global reaction remains frustratingly muted, rendering countless Afghan voices unheard and unprotected.
FIDH applauded the International Criminal Court’s Prosecutor for pursuing the leaders of the Taliban concerning gender persecution. They urged all nations to assist in these vital investigations while stressing the necessity for a survivor-focused accountability framework to ensure all culprits face justice. This thorough approach is essential to alleviating the pervasive climate of fear.
Nearly four years after the Taliban’s unlawful ascent to power, Afghan and global civil society consistently advocates for a potent accountability mechanism to tackle both historical and present human rights violations. They echo the Special Rapporteur’s insistence on forming a dedicated investigative body—equipped to gather evidence and facilitate international accountability efforts—vital for preserving the truth against ongoing transgressions.
Now is the time for action. The Council must respond swiftly to the fervent pleas of Afghan civil society, establishing this necessary mechanism without delay. In a land drenched in despair, accountability cannot remain a distant dream.
On 28 February 2025, FIDH addressed the UN Human Rights Council, highlighting the Taliban’s oppressive practices, particularly gender-based discrimination. They called for urgent international accountability mechanisms to address widespread human rights violations in Afghanistan and applauded the ICC’s actions against Taliban leaders. The necessity for immediate establishment of a comprehensive investigative body to gather evidence and facilitate justice was emphasised, making the case for swift global action in response to the cries of Afghan civil society.
The FIDH’s statement calls for urgent international action to support the establishment of an accountability mechanism for human rights violations in Afghanistan. With the oppressive regime of the Taliban rendering civil society almost non-existent, the need for robust investigative measures is critical. Urging collaboration with the International Criminal Court underscores the global responsibility to combat gender persecution and ensure justice for Afghan victims across the spectrum of abuse is imperative.
Original Source: www.fidh.org
