KABUL: Richard Bennett, the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights for Afghanistan, welcomed the initiation of the “People’s Tribunal for Afghan Women,” stating that justice should be survivor-centered, inclusive, and focused on the victims.
This court, initiated by several civil society organizations in Afghanistan, aims to investigate the crimes committed by the Taliban against Afghan women and girls before the official sessions of the permanent people’s tribunal in Madrid, Spain, which will begin on October 8, 2025.
The primary goal of this process is to document testimonies and gather evidence of human rights violations, particularly gender-based violence.
Four Afghan legal experts, in collaboration with international specialists, will present the charges to the tribunal.
Bennett emphasized the need to utilize “all possible means” to secure justice, asserting that “the experiences and voices of women must be at the center of justice, not on the margins.”
He warned that Afghan women must not be forgotten in political and diplomatic processes, adding, “The People’s Tribunal for Afghan Women will bring the voices of victims to the attention of the world.”
The first statement from the jury is expected to be published on October 10, with a final ruling anticipated by the end of 2025.
Bennett also welcomed the issuance of arrest warrants for several Taliban officials by the International Criminal Court, but noted that this step must be followed by practical actions.
