The Solidarity Committee for Afghanistan, formerly known as the Swedish Committee for Afghanistan, has urged the Taliban to take responsibility for the Afghan population by prioritizing essential public services and ensuring respect for the rights and freedoms of women and girls.
In a statement released during its annual meeting that was held last week, the committee warned that restrictions on women’s education and participation in society constitute a violation of their most fundamental rights. It also noted that international sanctions and the diplomatic isolation of the Taliban are having a direct impact on Afghanistan’s civilian population.
“The people of Afghanistan are suffering severely from poverty and oppression,” the statement read. “Pakistan and Iran are forcing millions of refugees back into Afghanistan, worsening the already dire situation. Hundreds of thousands have already crossed the border, and the scarce resources are not enough. Half of the country’s population is in need of humanitarian assistance, and millions lack access to basic public services.”
The group also highlighted the growing impact of climate change, citing recurring droughts and floods as further threats to the population’s wellbeing.
The committee expressed concern over declining international support, particularly a sharp drop in U.S. funding, which it described as catastrophic. “Millions of children are expected to suffer from severe malnutrition this year, especially following the U.S. decision to end support for nutrition programs,” the group said.
It added that the U.S. has also withdrawn backing for maternal healthcare and efforts to combat gender-based violence, leading to the closure of hundreds of midwifery clinics in rural areas.
“Sweden cannot stand idly by,” the committee said. “Sweden’s foreign and aid policy has long championed human rights, gender equality, and international solidarity.”
It urged the Swedish government to take three specific steps: present an immediate plan for alleviating Afghanistan’s humanitarian crisis; adopt a long-term strategy to support livelihoods, education, and healthcare; and actively work to break the diplomatic deadlock in multilateral engagement with the Taliban.
