UN chief, Michelle Bachelet has disclosed that the Taliban is already carrying out various human rights infringements in Afghanistan.
These human rights abuses include ‘summary executions’ of civilians, the recruitment of child soldiers, and restrictions on the rights of women and girls.
Michelle Bachelet who is the High Commissioner for Human Rights urged the Human Rights Council to take ‘bold and vigorous action’.
It can be recalled that Taliban leaders promised their commitment to a peaceful Afghanistan, an image of moderation, which includes allowing women as part of the government, but many Afghans are skeptical and racing to leave the country.
In light of this report, it is therefore unclear if the Taliban leadership is saying one word and practicing another or whether its ground fighters are taking matters into their own hands.
On Tuesday 24th August, Bachelet called for strong, decisive action to investigate reports of rights abuses, as she sought to ensure that international attention on the country doesn’t wane.
She said, “At this critical moment, the people of Afghanistan look to the Human Rights Council to defend and protect their rights
“I urge this council to take bold and vigorous action, commensurate with the gravity of this crisis, by establishing a dedicated mechanism to closely monitor the evolving human rights situation in Afghanistan.”
The Dailymail reports that leaders from the G7 nations plan to meet later Tuesday to discuss the alarming refugee crisis and the collapse of the Afghan government amid wrangling over whether the full US withdrawal of troops could be extended beyond the end of the month to allow more time to evacuate those desperate to leave.
This new report can also be part of the agenda of the meeting.