Interactive Dialogue on the Annual Report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and Report of the Office of the High Commissioner and the Secretary-General
Statement by the Delegation of the United States of America
Human Rights Council – 54th Session
As Delivered by Rina Amiri
Thank you, Mr. President.
Thank you, High Commissioner Türk, for putting a spotlight on the devastating situation in Afghanistan and for producing this important report.
The Taliban’s systemic discrimination against women and girls and oppression of the Afghan population presents one of the most serious human rights situations that we confront in the world today. It is also an economic, security and stability issue that is of vital importance to every country that seeks a secure, sustainable, and stable Afghanistan.
As my colleague Ambassador Taylor remarked yesterday: international unity in prioritizing human rights in Afghanistan remains essential. As we have said time and again the United States remains resolute that there is no path towards normalization until the Taliban respect the human rights of all Afghans and end their and end their repressive actions, particularly the relentless edicts and decrees against women and girls.
It is also critical that Afghans remain united. Afghan men must stand in support of women and girls. There is also a need for tolerance, and respect for diversity of ideas to address the devastating human rights situation in Afghanistan.
How can UN human rights mechanisms on Afghanistan, including your office’s efforts, UNAMA and the Special Rapporteur, be supported and strengthened?
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