Ireland parliament to review Afghanistan rights, focus on women

Ireland’s parliament will review Afghanistan’s human rights situation, focusing on women’s rights, restrictions, employment challenges and worsening humanitarian conditions across the country.

The Parliament of Ireland said its Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade will hold a session on Tuesday to examine the human rights situation in Afghanistan, with a particular focus on women and girls.

According to a statement, the session will take place at Leinster House and will address “the current situation in Afghanistan, with special emphasis on human rights and the treatment of women and girls.”

Participants are expected to include Richard Bennett, alongside Afghan human rights advocates. Irish officials said conditions in Afghanistan have deteriorated significantly since August 2021, citing widespread restrictions on women, including bans on education beyond primary level, severe limits on employment and curbs on freedom of movement and public participation.

UN reports indicate that despite having skills and qualifications, only about 17% of Afghan women returnees from Pakistan and Iran are currently employed, reflecting sharp restrictions on their participation in the workforce.

Limitations on education and employment opportunities have further weakened women’s economic independence, increasing reliance on humanitarian assistance.

Afghanistan is facing a deepening humanitarian crisis, with millions struggling with poverty, food insecurity and limited access to basic services.

At the same time, influx of returning refugees from Iran and Pakistan have added pressure on already strained resources and job markets.

The committee is also expected to discuss the situation of ethnic and religious groups, including the Hazara community, which has faced reports of discrimination and displacement.

Lawmakers will review broader allegations of human rights violations, including arbitrary detentions, restrictions on freedom of expression and the erosion of legal protections, particularly in cases involving gender-based violence.

The session forms part of Ireland’s ongoing review of its foreign policy and its role in supporting international human rights efforts related to Afghanistan.

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