Thank you Mr. President,

We thank the Special Rapporteur for his update on the human rights situation in Afghanistan, which continues to deteriorate. 

Five years after the Taliban took power, the situation continues to be highly challenging for many Afghans. The Netherlands is deeply concerned about the situation of children and young people in Afghanistan and its impact on their development and well-being. Specifically many Afghans returning from neighboring countries are children, who may face heightened vulnerabilities and specific protection needs upon return. The Netherlands admires the resilience and creativity of children and young people in these circumstances and welcomes initiatives that give young Afghans a voice. 

The Netherlands remains deeply concerned about the human rights situation in Afghanistan, especially for women and girls, who have been stripped of their fundamental rights. The Taliban’s so called laws, policies and practices constitute gross and systematic discrimination of women and girls, by excluding them from education, healthcare and public life and have severe implications for their future and the future of Afghanistan. The Netherlands urges Afghanistan under the Taliban rule to respect and uphold human rights and fundamental freedoms for all Afghans, particularly women and girls, and remains firmly committed to this cause by supporting projects in Afghanistan. 

Mr. President,
Mr. Special Rapporteur, in your view, what is the most urgent action the international community should take to improve the situation of children and young people in Afghanistan?