CREID calls for creation of a robust international accountability mechanism to monitor and report on the human rights situation in Afghanistan
Human Rights Council – 31st Special Session – Tuesday 24th August 2021
Special Session on the serious human rights concerns and situation in Afghanistan
Speaker: Naumana Suleman
Madam President,
This statement is delivered on behalf of the Coalition for Religious Equality and Inclusive Development (CREID).
Under the current circumstances, where the situation is uncertain, and threatens to unleash a humanitarian crisis, religious or belief minorities specifically the large Shia Hazara population, but also Hindus, Sikhs, Christians, Bahai’s, Buddhists, Zoroastrians and non-believers all are particularly at risk of persecution. Reports on the ground suggest a deteriorating situation for all women, with additional vulnerabilities for minority women.
Despite the assurances of Taliban’s leadership of amnesty, respect for human rights and international law, some recent developments are clear early-warning signs of future persecution. In Bamyan, on 18th August the Taliban blew up the statue of Abdul Ali Mazari (a well-respected Shiite leader), and earlier, In Kabul, they removed the religious banners of Shias, after the takeover. The announcement of reinstatement of a Khilafat is concerning for all religious or belief minorities.
In Jaghori – a district dominated by Shia Hazaras, the new Taliban mayor threatened the locals with “harsh action” against them if they should fail to follow the new regime’s orders, and reports of torture and killings have started to surface.
In light of these concerns, we call on the HRC to;
- Create a robust international accountability mechanism to monitor and report on the situation of Human Rights in Afghanistan
- Urge Taliban authorities to allow UN and other independent entities to monitor the human rights situation on ground.
I thank you.
Watch the statement
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