Petri Orpo, the Prime Minister of Finland, has described the situation in Afghanistan as alarming, stating that the interim government continues to violate human rights and impose restrictions on citizens, particularly on women and girls.
Mr. Orpo made these remarks at the Hazara Culture Day festival in Finland, emphasizing that one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises is unfolding in Afghanistan, where human rights are still being violated.
He further stressed that the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan are increasingly being undermined, and violence and discrimination against them are never acceptable.
He added that Finland is working within the framework of the global community and the European Union to improve the situation in Afghanistan and will continue these efforts.
Additionally, the Finnish Prime Minister stated that Hazaras who have chosen this country as their home should not forget their cultural heritage; rather, preserving their language, culture, art, and cultural identity is of special importance.
He noted that language, religion, music, literature, clothing, and art are fundamental elements of individual and community identity, and these values become even more significant for those living away from their homeland.
He mentioned the role of the Hazara community in promoting education and equality, stating that Hazaras were among the first groups in Afghanistan to fight for girls’ access to education.
Latif Fayyaz, the head of the Hazara Cultural House in Finland, also remarked at the event that Hazaras have faced discrimination, oppression, and massacres throughout history but have always valued education, work, peaceful coexistence, and social participation.
The Hazarh Culture Day festival was held at the cultural center in Jarvenpaa, featuring cultural programs, traditional clothing displays, local music, art exhibitions, and traditional Hazara cuisine.
