Afghanistan

Afghanistan: Political movements stress need for self-determination, human rights

Afghanistan’s political and civil rights movements, in a joint statement, emphasized that the country’s primary concern is regaining self-determination and human rights, which they claim have been “eroded by terrorists”.

THe statement, released by the Council of National Resistance for Salvation of Afghanistan, pertains to the recent Doha meeting on Feb. 18-19.

The statement pointed out that ignoring these issues amounts to a “waste of time.”

It advocated for the engagement of all stakeholders in Afghanistan and called for the formation of an inclusive government, incorporating all conflict-affected and influential political parties.

The movements criticized the current extremist group’s rule as illegitimate, arguing that it fails to address the civil, political, social, and cultural rights of Afghan citizens. The statement identified several groups, including the Hezb-e-Islami, Jamiat Party, Junbish Party, Dawat Party, Wahdat Party, Justice and Freedom Party, National Resistance Front, Council of Eastern Unit, Council of Loy Kandahar, Freedom Front, and the Council of National Moderation Party, as part of this united movement.

They asserted that the political process in Afghanistan cannot progress without the “presence of political parties and movements.” The statement also supported the appointment of UN special envoys for Afghanistan, suggesting that these envoys could be effective if they consult with all influential stakeholders.

Following the Doha meeting, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres announced his intention to initiate consultations for the appointment of a special envoy for Afghanistan.