Distinguished Colleagues,

Esteemed delegates,

For more than three years, women and girls in Afghanistan have endured unimaginable suffering, subject to systematic gender-based discrimination and grave human rights violations.

The de facto authorities in Afghanistan have violated the very principles that form the foundation of the international human rights system. Their restrictive policies and practices which aim to target women and girls, denying them their basic human rights and fundamental freedoms are in clear violations of the CPRW and CEDAW. This is not only a violation of our shared commitment to gender equality but a betrayal of the Afghan people who deserve justice, dignity, and respect. We must stand up collectively to uphold the provisions enshrined in both conventions.

While the international community has raised its voice and expressed condemnation of the Taliban’s persecution, we believe there is much more that can be done to alleviate the suffering of Afghan women and girls. It is our collective responsibility to explore avenues for accountability, to hold those responsible for gender persecution to account. We must not let these violations go unpunished.

We must consider the options available to ensure that the perpetrators of gender-based discrimination face the full weight of justice. To this end, we should explore different avenues, including by bringing/supporting a case before the ICJ for violations of international conventions such as CPRW and CEDAW, treaties that Afghanistan is a party to, or by ensuring a gender responsive approach to systematic gender discrimination in the draft Treaty on the Prevention and Punishment of Crimes against Humanity.

Albania hosted the All-Afghan Women Summit, which was held in Tirana, from 11-13 September 2024. The Summit was organized in partnership with Women for Afghanistan (WFA), co-hosted by Spain and co-sponsored by Switzerland. During the proceedings of the Summit, we had the opportunity exchange views about women in Afghanistan and hear firsthand their experiences and their thoughts how to approach and address their dire situation.

Colleagues,

Women in Afghanistan are on the frontlines, fighting against injustice and advocating for the rights of their sisters. Their courage and determination are an inspiration to us all. Let us engage them, listen to their voices, and empower them to lead the way towards meaningful change.

We must provide them with the resources, expertise, and solidarity they need to rebuild their lives and create a society where gender equality is not just a distant dream but a living reality.

Together, let us pledge to make a difference, to break the chains of discrimination, and to create a future where the rights and dignity of women and girls are protected, respected, and upheld, while those responsible for grave violations human rights are hold to account.

Thank you.