KABUL: Richard Bennett, the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Afghanistan, stated that the human rights situation in Afghanistan was a central topic of his speech at a meeting held in Lahore, Pakistan. According to Bennett, the meeting was named after Asma Jahangir, a renowned human rights activist and founder of Pakistan’s Human Rights Commission, and was attended by numerous human rights advocates and defenders. He noted that Asma Jahangir is recognized as a symbol of “perseverance and courage in defending human rights,” a figure who stood for humanity, justice, and human dignity without fear of opposition or threats. The European Union’s delegation in Pakistan supported the meeting, saying, “In a world filled with chaos, Asma Jahangir remains a guiding force for justice.” The EU emphasized the importance of human rights defenders, inclusive democratic institutions, and universal access to justice. This meeting comes amid widespread restrictions imposed by the Taliban on the fundamental rights of citizens in Afghanistan since their return to power, particularly regarding the education and schooling of girls and women. Initially, the Taliban announced that these restrictions would continue until “further notice” from their leadership. However, over four years later, no changes to this decision have been observed. During this period, the Taliban have banned women from working, going to baths and parks, and traveling without a male guardian, while significant restrictions on the rights and freedoms of men have also been enforced.
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