UN Special Rapporteur Richard Bennett conferred with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock on Thursday, engaging in discussions concerning the prevailing human rights conditions in Afghanistan.
Bennett said in a social media post that the two sides deliberated upon “critical human rights issues in Afghanistan,” which encompassed Afghanistan’s feminist foreign policy. The talks underscored the imperative of establishing accountability for human rights transgressions.
In parallel, Germany’s Foreign Minister affirmed unwavering solidarity with the Afghan populace, expressing an unyielding commitment to advocate for their human rights.
These developments arise against the backdrop of Richard Bennett’s recent vocalization on the deteriorating human rights landscape in Afghanistan following the Taliban’s ascension to power on August 15, 2021.
In a visual declaration disseminated by the US Institute of Peace, Bennett conveyed, “The situation for women and girls over the last two years has become dire and catastrophic, with their rights being significantly eroded.”
He further highlighted concerns regarding the rights of marginalized groups, particularly minorities and children.
Bennett elaborated, “Evident in the realm of civil and political rights are instances of extrajudicial killings, arbitrary detention, torture, and enforced disappearances. These persist despite the purported general amnesty declared by the Taliban shortly after seizing control.”
He pointed out the prevailing deficiencies in upholding the rule of law.
“In the sphere of economic, social, and cultural rights, widespread destitution prevails due to the humanitarian crisis. Inadequate access to education and healthcare compounds the challenges. Overall, the situation gives rise to numerous apprehensions,” Bennett stated.
