Taliban Bars UN Special Rapporteur Richard Bennett from Entering Afghanistan

The Taliban have barred UN-appointed Special Rapporteur Richard Bennett from entering Afghanistan, accusing him of spreading propaganda. Bennett, tasked with monitoring human rights in Afghanistan, faced opposition due to his critical reports on the Taliban’s treatment of women and girls. The UN has yet to respond.

The Taliban have barred United Nations-appointed special rapporteur Richard Bennett from entering Afghanistan, citing accusations of spreading propaganda. This development was confirmed by a spokesperson for the Taliban administration to local broadcaster Tolo.

Bennett was appointed by the United Nations Human Rights Council in 2022 to monitor human rights in Afghanistan following the Taliban's seizure of power the year prior. Known for his critical stance on the Taliban's treatment of women and girls, Bennett is stationed outside Afghanistan but has made several research visits.

The UN Human Rights Council has yet to comment on the incident. Meanwhile, Taliban officials, including spokesperson Abdul Qahar Balkhi and Zabihullah Mujahid, have justified the barring, alleging Bennett's reports were biased and inflammatory. Foreign recognition of the Taliban remains stalled, notably due to their stance on women's rights.

(With inputs from agencies.)