Richard Bennett, the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Afghanistan, has warned that the Taliban should not be treated as a normal and legitimate actor while continuing their systematic violations of the rights of women and girls.
Today (Saturday, July 5), in response to Russia’s decision to recognize the Taliban, Bennett posted on his X account (formerly Twitter), calling the Taliban a “serious violator of human rights” and expressing his “deep disappointment” over Moscow’s move.
He stressed: “Russia’s decision sets a dangerous precedent, emboldens the Taliban, and paves the way for further repression of human rights.”
His remarks come amid widespread criticism and protests by Afghan women’s rights activists and human rights defenders against the Kremlin’s recognition of the Taliban.
These activists have described Russia’s action as “blatant collusion with gender apartheid” and have called on the international community, the United Nations, the European Union, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and international courts to formally condemn it.
