Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Afghanistan
Statement by the Delegation of the United States of America
As Delivered by Ambassador Michèle Taylor
Human Rights Council 51st Session
Thank you, Madam Vice President, and thank you, Special Rapporteur Bennett for your update and your tireless efforts on behalf of the Afghan people. The United States fully supports your mandate.
We are deeply troubled by the human rights situation since the Taliban takeover of Kabul, and are grateful for the continued reporting of the Special Rapporteur, UNAMA, and civil society organizations that allows us insight into the plight of the Afghan people.
Former government officials, human rights defenders, activists, and journalists have been harassed, detained, and allegedly severely abused. Ethnic and religious groups are being increasingly targeted by ISIS-K.
We are particularly troubled with expanding restrictions on women and girls in all their diversity. We implore the Taliban to reverse their regressive edicts, hold those responsible for violence to account, and uphold their promises to the Afghan people.
The voices of Afghan women, members of the many at-risk communities, including LGBTQI+ persons, and civil society are critical for lasting peace. In recognition of this, the United States announced the formation of the U.S.-Afghan Consultative Mechanism.
The United States continues to stand with the Afghan people as they demand full respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Question: Mr. Special Rapporteur, what can the international community do to support the aspirations of the Afghan people and promote their human rights and fundamental freedoms?
I thank you.
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