Alarmed by the happenings in Afghanistan, the United Nations Human Rights Council has passed a resolution condemning rights violations against women and girls in Afghanistan, calling on the ruling Taliban to end restrictive practices described as making them “invisible” in society.
It could be recalled that the Taliban seized power for a second time in Afghanistan last August as international forces backing a pro-Western government pulled out.
Reports have it that women’s rights have since been undermined with new curbs on their clothes, movement and education, despite earlier Taliban vows to the contrary.
Czech ambassador Václav Bálek on behalf of the European Union said “Since August 2021, the human rights situation in Afghanistan has seriously deteriorated, especially for women and girls”.
“Restrictive measures put in place by the Taliban are making (them) … invisible in Afghanistan society.”
It was clarified that the council’s decisions are not legally binding but carry political weight and can lead to official investigations.
The recent resolution, which was backed by dozens of countries, was passed without a vote, although China’s mission disassociated itself from the outcome, describing it as “not balanced”.
Reports said it is one of 11 draft resolutions under consideration at the latest meeting.
Afghanistan envoy Mohibullah Taib, appointed by the previous Afghan government, while supporting the resolution, said new curbs amounted to “gender apartheid”.
Also harping on the issue, the U.S. ambassador to the council, Michèle Taylor, aired concern over recent measures, mentioning a new policy to punish male family members who are not enforcing restrictions that was creating an environment of “constant fear”.
It was stated that the resolution foresees a debate in September or October at the next council session, in which Afghan women’s rights activists will have the chance to participate.
Meanwhile, Marc Limon of the Universal Rights Group think-tank believes the Taliban were unlikely to change course as a result of the condemnation but suggested the U.N. could have leverage if it tied women’s rights to international assistance in the future.
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