Joint Statement on Afghanistan women’s and girls’ human rights

Madam President,

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of Australia, my own country Spain and a group of countries.

We are deeply concerned by reports of serious human rights violations across Afghanistan. We call for the immediate cessation of targeted killings of women’s rights defenders.

We are troubled by reports of a reduction in rights and access to services and public spaces for Afghan women and girls.

Women’s empowerment benefits all Afghans. The protection of Afghan women’s and girls’ human rights must be an integral part of the political solution We call upon all States and all parties to create and support an enabling environment for all women to have a meaningful participation in this process as acknowledged in HRC resolution 45/28. We further call upon all parties to commit to protecting human rights workers and advocates.

The gains of the last 20 years must be preserved. Afghan women’s organisations that advocate for and provide services to women and girls must be allowed to continue their crucial work.

We strongly condemn all forms of violence against women and girls. We call on those in power and authority to guarantee women’s and girls’ rights to education, work, health and freedom of movement, to achieve inclusive and sustainable peace in Afghanistan. We will closely monitor the protection and enjoyment of all human rights.

Afghan women and girls deserve to live in safety, security and dignity. We stand ready to amplify their voices and ensure their concerns are heard.

I thank you.