GENEVA — The United Nations special rapporteur for Afghanistan, Richard Bennett, used Human Rights Day to pay tribute to the resilience and courage of Afghans, emphasizing the urgent need to address the country’s human rights challenges.
In a statement on X, Mr. Bennett highlighted the numerous issues facing Afghanistan, including gender persecution, the erosion of civic space, torture, the plight of marginalized minorities, and an ongoing humanitarian crisis.
“On Human Rights Day, I honor the resilient and courageous Afghans who continue to demand #OurRightsOurFuture right now,” he wrote, urging the global community to stand in solidarity with those facing repression.
Mr. Bennett also reiterated a core principle of the United Nations’ human rights mission: “Human rights are non-negotiable.”
Afghanistan has seen sweeping restrictions on women’s rights under the Taliban administration, alongside mounting concerns over the suppression of civil society, freedom of expression, and access to humanitarian aid. International human rights advocates continue to call for stronger measures to address these issues.
