Several academics, researchers and human rights activists criticised the declining international attention to women’s rights in Afghanistan at a meeting held at the University of Ottawa.
The meeting was held on Monday, November 9, with the participation of Richard Bennett, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan.
The meeting addressed the human rights situation, political repression, discrimination and the international community’s responsibility towards the crisis in Afghanistan.
Participants criticised the declining international attention to women’s rights, the situation of marginalised communities and the response of international institutions to the Taliban.
They stressed the need for a comprehensive examination of the human rights crisis in Afghanistan and stronger accountability mechanisms for international institutions.
Referring to the situation in Panjshir, Bennett also identified the militarisation of the region as an issue requiring attention.
He also highlighted the environmental consequences of mining activities and women’s access to natural resources.
Child malnutrition and the continuation of humanitarian assistance were also among the issues discussed at the meeting.
