PRESS RELEASE : The Taliban has a responsibility to meet its international commitments – UK statement at the UN Security Council [December 2023]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 29 December 2023.

Explanation of vote by Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the UN Security Council meeting on Afghanistan.

Colleagues, I would first like to thank the penholders, the UAE and Japan, not only for their tireless efforts on this important text but also for their creativity and tenacity, which led to the Council mandating the independent assessment on Afghanistan, which was very ably executed by Ambassador Feridun Sinirlioğlu.

As we’ve said multiple times in this chamber, we should seize the momentum of the independent assessment with the hope of changing Afghanistan’s current negative trajectory.

At the same time, the Taliban has a responsibility to meet its international commitments, including via the immediate reversal of policies restricting women’s rights and fundamental freedoms.

So, we encourage all parties, including Afghan and international stakeholders, to take forward the independent assessment’s recommendations, working towards an Afghanistan that is at peace with its people, its neighbours, and the international community.

Thank you, President.