Gilles Bertrand, the European Union’s Special Envoy for Afghanistan, has stated that the human rights situation in the country—particularly concerning women—is alarming.
He made these remarks following the conclusion of his six-day visit to Afghanistan, saying that decisions banning women and girls from working in UN offices send a “negative signal” to the international community.
In his statement, Bertrand emphasized the EU’s support for media freedom in Afghanistan.
He also expressed concern over the presence of terrorist groups in Afghanistan and called on both Pakistan and the Taliban-led interim government to show restraint, protect civilians, and resume dialogue.
The statement notes that the current government’s restrictions on implementing agencies have made humanitarian aid delivery more costly and difficult, urging the authorities to reconsider these limitations.
It also refers to the challenges surrounding the return of millions of Afghan refugees from neighboring countries and announces that the EU will increase its assistance for returnees in 2025.
Bertrand further reaffirmed the EU’s support for international dialogues led by the United Nations aimed at achieving peace and inclusive governance in Afghanistan.
According to the statement, the European Union has spent over €1.8 billion on humanitarian aid, health, education, and economic development in Afghanistan since 2021.
These concerns come as international organizations have repeatedly called on the current Afghan authorities to respect human rights—especially women’s rights—and to form an inclusive government since their return to power.
