Bennett condemned the decision, saying, "I have consistently sought to engage transparently with the de facto authorities (.) I urge the Taliban to reverse their decision and reiterate my willingness and availability to travel to Afghanistan." He highlighted his commitment to documenting human rights, stating that the ban would not impede his mission, but rather reflects a troubling stance from the Taliban about international engagement on human rights issues.
"The Taliban's public announcement that they will no longer grant me access to Afghanistan is a step backward and sends a concerning signal about their engagement with the United Nations and the international community on human rights," Bennett noted. He emphasized that these developments undermine any potential dialogue and cooperation on human rights improvements in the country.
The Taliban has turned back the clock on gender equality since regaining control of Afghanistan, effectively banning women from sight and shutting them out of society. Their policies, which impose restrictions on education and employment for women, reflect an ultraconservative interpretation of Islamic law that has alienated them from international recognition.
Despite controlling Afghanistan, the Taliban's dismal human rights record complicates their acceptance as legitimate rulers globally. Restrictions such as the freezing of central bank assets and travel bans on leaders are indicative of the broader discontent with their governance and treatment of citizens.
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