ISLAMABAD: United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan, Richard Bennett, called Thursday for continued international efforts to recognize what he described as “gender apartheid” under Taliban rule, warning that sweeping restrictions on women and girls require sustained global attention.
He made the remarks during a parliamentary conference on Afghanistan at the French National Assembly in Paris, according to Afghanistan International.
Speaking to lawmakers, rights advocates and former Afghan officials, Bennett said the human rights situation in Afghanistan remains deeply troubling, particularly for women and girls facing severe limitations on education, employment and public life.
“Alongside realism about the situation, we must maintain hope for the people of Afghanistan,” Bennett said, emphasizing the need for continued international engagement and support for Afghan citizens.
Bennett also highlighted the role of the Afghan diaspora, saying communities abroad could help sustain hope and contribute to the country’s future direction.
Since returning to power in 2021, the Taliban have imposed a series of restrictions on women and girls, including bans on secondary and higher education for girls, limits on employment and constraints on movement without a male guardian. Rights groups and UN officials have repeatedly condemned the policies as violations of fundamental human rights.
The conference in Paris focused on Afghanistan’s humanitarian and political situation, with participants discussing international responses to the country’s ongoing crisis.
