UN Special Rapporteur Richard Bennett warned that the Taliban’s newly introduced morality law signifies a “new phase in the ongoing repression” of human rights in Afghanistan, particularly targeting women and girls.
Speaking at the 57th session of the UN Human Rights Council, Bennett emphasized that the law, which was enacted by the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, deepens gender persecution and discrimination, affecting nearly every aspect of Afghan society since the Taliban’s takeover in August 2021.
Impact on Women, Minorities, and Vulnerable Groups
Bennett condemned the law as a direct assault on the rights of Afghan women and girls, reinforcing institutionalized sex and gender discrimination. “This law institutionalizes gender persecution, a crime against humanity,” Bennett stated, adding that it affects not only women but the entire population, with long-term consequences for future generations.
He also raised concerns about the increasing restrictions on Afghanistan’s religious, ethnic, and linguistic minorities. Bennett highlighted the plight of the Hazara community, who have faced ongoing violence and restrictions on their ability to practice their faith, speak their language, and express their cultural identity. “Religious, ethnic, and linguistic minorities are facing ongoing attacks,” he said, calling for urgent attention to their suffering.
Crackdown on Media and LGBTQI Community
The new law also extends to media, with a ban on broadcasting images of human beings. Bennett pointed out that these restrictions further erode freedom of expression in Afghanistan, where the press is already under severe pressure. “Severe restrictions, threats, intimidation, and violence make it nearly impossible for journalists and human rights defenders to operate freely,” Bennett warned.
The LGBTQI community in Afghanistan has also been subjected to escalating violence, including public flogging. “LGBTQI individuals, long subjected to systematic discrimination and persecution, now endure even more severe violence,” Bennett noted.
Worsening Humanitarian Crisis
Beyond human rights violations, Bennett stressed that the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan is worsening, exacerbating the suffering of vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with disabilities. He pointed to the compounding effects of repression, poverty, and natural disasters, which have left millions in need of urgent assistance. “The cumulative effects of these oppressive policies and human rights violations perpetuate a climate of fear and oppression that affects every segment of Afghan society,” he said.
Bennett’s remarks highlight the need for swift international action to prevent further deterioration of rights and freedoms in Afghanistan and to address the mounting humanitarian and human rights crises under Taliban rule.
