Reactions to Richard Bennett's Report: Human Rights Activists' Union: This Report Clearly Highlights Taliban Crimes

In a statement on Wednesday (June 19), the union said that the Taliban have systematically committed extrajudicial killings, arbitrary, and ruthless massacres without trial.

Human rights activists, while supporting Bennett's report, stated that severe torture and inhumane treatment of prisoners and political opponents continue unabated.

The union pointed out multiple human rights violations by the Taliban, noting that the group has not only violated people's privacy but has also systematically disrespected the dignity and honor of people by taking young women and girls hostage. They emphasized that this aspect was missing from Bennett's report.

The union added that the Taliban deserve "immediate suppression and defeat" due to their heinous crimes and should be brought to justice.

Bennett's report also mentioned violations of women's rights, suppression of free speech, public punishments, and amputations, which have been welcomed by human rights activists.

The Human Rights Activists' Union stated, "Any action that does not uphold justice will not have a lasting result. Only by suppressing and prosecuting terrorism can we hope to secure the rights of victims, restore justice in the country, and ensure international security."

The union also called on the public to hold protests in connection with the upcoming third Doha meeting.

Meanwhile, Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban's spokesperson, described Richard Bennett's report as an attempt to mislead public opinion ahead of the third Doha meeting.

Mujahid said that some UN members have consistently tried to present incorrect reports about the reality of Afghanistan and have ignored progress.

Referring to Bennett's recent report, the Taliban spokesperson called it a failed attempt. He added that the Taliban welcome the supportive stance of some countries within the UN and emphasized that "positive and constructive engagement" with the Taliban should take place.

In his report presented at the 56th session of the Human Rights Council, Richard Bennett stated that violence against women under Taliban rule remains widespread and severe and called for the recognition of "gender apartheid" in Afghanistan. He stressed that efforts to legitimize and normalize relations with the Taliban should be avoided.

This comes as the Taliban have announced their readiness to participate in the third Doha meeting on Afghanistan, and several human rights organizations, including Human Rights Watch, have called for holding the Taliban accountable at the upcoming Doha meeting.