HRC52: Statement on Afghanistan
The UK's Ambassador to the WTO and UN in Geneva, Simon Manley, delivered this statement on Afghanistan at the 52nd session of the UN Human Rights Council.
Thank you Mr President.
Let me start by thanking the Special Rapporteur for his determination and eloquence in shedding light on the deteriorating situation of human rights in Afghanistan.
As International Women’s Day fast approaches, half of Afghanistan’s population are practically imprisoned in their homes. Domestic violence is on the rise. Yet, if women exercise their freedom of movement they risk arrest, detention and beatings. Instead of attending school and freely planning their futures, girls face the truly devastating fate of being forced into marriage.
This draconian reality is further compounded by rising food insecurity and poverty.
The Taliban have made it near impossible for the Afghan people to live in dignity and safety. Therefore the international community, must continue to urge the Taliban to restore hope to the people of Afghanistan. Which is why the UK has disbursed over half a billion pounds in aid, to ensure lifesaving support to the most vulnerable,
Special Rapporteur,
What more can be done to urgently improve the situation for women and girls in Afghanistan?
Thank you.