EU Condemns Taliban’s Rights Violations, Pledges Support For Afghan Refugees

The European Union (EU) has condemned the Taliban’s systematic suppression of women and girls during a UNHCR Standing Committee session. The EU urged full and equal human rights for Afghan women and called for their empowerment, participation, and leadership in society.

In a statement, the EU warned that Afghanistan’s human rights and humanitarian crisis continues to worsen. It stressed that women and girls are the most affected by the Taliban’s policies.

EU member states expressed deep concern over the ongoing crisis in Afghanistan. They reaffirmed their commitment to funding the UNHCR to support Afghan refugees and displaced persons in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iran.

The EU called for ensuring Afghan refugees have access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. It also pledged support for security measures, including identity document extensions for Afghans.

The EU urged UNHCR to oppose the deportation of undocumented Afghan refugees from Pakistan and Iran. It emphasised the need for regional strategies to assess Afghanistan’s situation and provide sustainable solutions for returnees.

The EU called for an inclusive humanitarian response and stronger efforts to support Afghan returnees through life-saving assistance and resilience-building programmes.