Human Rights Council 51st session: Item 2 - Enhanced interactive dialogue on the Situation of Human Rights of Women and Girls in Afghanistan - PR UN, WTO and other organisations Geneva

Human Rights Council 51st Session: Item 2  - Enhanced interactive dialogue on the Situation of Human Rights of Women and Girls in Afghanistan | 12-09-2022

Statement of the Kingdom of the Netherlands delivered by Lila Del Colle

The Kingdom of the Netherlands aligns itself with the EU statement and thanks all representatives of the panel for their valuable contribution.

We are profoundly concerned about the increasingly repressive measures introduced by the Taliban, to women and girls in all spheres of daily life. We are also deeply concerned about the continued prevalence of sexual and gender-based violence and discrimination.

We wish to reiterate that the continuous and increasing oppression of women and girls is detrimental to the social, economic and political development and security of Afghanistan. If the Taliban wishes to be recognized as a legitimate government, it should act like one - for all its citizens. Only then Afghanistan will be able to become a resilient, stable and prosperous country.

We urge the Taliban to respect and safeguard all human rights, to enable equal access to education and work, and full participation in society.

The Netherlands firmly supports the work of the UN Special Rapporteur and civil society organizations working towards accountability. Documentation of violations and abuses of human rights, including those of women and girls, remains vital for the road to accountability and sustainable peace and stability.

Panelists,

Could you elaborate on ways for the international community to support your work towards justice for all victims and accountability for all perpetrators of violations of human rights of women and girls?

I thank you.