In a recent development, the Taliban has barred Richard Bennett, the UN Special Rapporteur on gross human rights violations in Afghanistan, from entering the country. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid accused Bennett of disseminating “propaganda” against the regime, alleging that the UN envoy has exaggerated minor issues and misinformed international bodies.
Mujahid stated, “Mr. Bennett is banned from coming to Afghanistan. He was appointed to spread propaganda against Afghanistan. We do not trust what he says.” This move comes in the wake of Bennett’s reports to the UN Human Rights Council, where he has repeatedly criticized the Taliban for widespread human rights abuses, particularly against women, civil society members, the media, former military personnel, and ethnic and religious minorities.
In his latest report, Bennett, referencing human rights activists, accused the Taliban of imposing gender apartheid on Afghan women. He also called for the prosecution of Taliban officials responsible for these violations at the International Criminal Court in The Hague.
This week, during an interview with Deutsche Welle, the Taliban spokesperson extended his accusations to international organizations, including UNAMA, claiming they are engaged in a campaign of propaganda against Afghanistan. Mujahid argued that these organizations overlook the positive aspects of the Taliban regime, focusing solely on its shortcomings, and asserted that these bodies have been “hired for propaganda purposes.”
The Taliban’s ongoing resistance to international criticism and demands for greater inclusivity highlights their firm grip on power and apparent disregard for global norms. The widening chasm between the Taliban’s narrative and international expectations underscores the regime’s increasing isolation. With the Taliban continuing to reject calls for elections and political inclusivity, the prospects for a peaceful and representative government in Afghanistan appear increasingly dim.
