Richard Bennett: Ban on Girls’ Education in Afghanistan is “Extremism”

Photo: UN_HRC

Richard Bennett, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan, has warned that the Taliban’s ban on the education of women and girls constitutes “extremism” and puts the future of Afghanistan at risk of destruction.

On Friday (September 26), speaking at a side event of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, he said that the Taliban’s focus on religious indoctrination instead of formal education deprives the young generation of Afghanistan of opportunity and hope.

Bennett emphasized that documented reports on the situation in Afghanistan are vital for shaping global discussions and effective international action. He also stressed the necessity of creating platforms for Afghan voices to be heard, especially those of Islamic scholars and experts, stating that their perspectives play a key role in countering the Taliban’s narratives.

The UN Special Rapporteur, while condemning the suppression of civil society, the intimidation of critics, and the Taliban’s reprisals against opponents, said: “Despite the Taliban’s pressure to silence dissenting voices, the actions of this group remain under the scrutiny of the international community.”

These remarks come as the Taliban, since their return to power in August 2021, have severely restricted freedom of expression and civil activities. Multiple reports of violations of free speech, suppression of civil protests, and restrictions on independent institutions in Afghanistan have created serious concerns at the international level.