Taliban Ban on the UN’s Special Rapporteur on Human Rights, Richard Bennett, from entering Afghanistan has raised alarms. The Taliban’s spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, announced the ban, which was reported by Afghan broadcasters. Mujahid accused Bennett of spreading “propaganda” and providing “false” information about the human rights situation in Afghanistan. Bennett described the Taliban Ban as “a step backwards,” emphasizing that it sends a troubling signal about the Taliban’s willingness to engage with the United Nations and the global community on human rights issues.
Richard Bennett, who was appointed in 2022, has been monitoring the human rights conditions in Afghanistan. He has visited the country multiple times, highlighting severe human rights abuses, particularly against women and girls. The Taliban Ban now prevents Bennett from continuing his work on the ground, further isolating the Taliban from international scrutiny.
The Taliban Ban on Bennett underscores the growing tensions between the Taliban and the United Nations, casting a shadow over the future of human rights in Afghanistan. This decision not only hinders Bennett’s ability to report on the situation but also raises questions about the Taliban’s commitment to addressing human rights concerns.
