KABUL — Representatives from the European Union and 13 countries have raised alarm over the continued threat of terrorism emanating from Afghanistan and the Taliban’s escalating repression of human rights, particularly those of women and girls.
The meeting, held in London on September 29–30 and chaired by the United Kingdom, brought together envoys from the United States, Canada, France, Germany, Australia, Denmark, Italy, Japan, Norway, South Korea, Switzerland, Turkey, and the European Union. Georgette Gagnon, Deputy Special Representative and current head of the UN political office in Afghanistan, also briefed participants on the situation in the country.
In a joint statement, the group said it was “concerned over the persistent terrorist threat and cross-border migration security challenges emanating from Afghanistan.”
They recognized the importance of regional countries in countering terrorism and discussed ways to expand cooperation.
Participants also expressed deep concern about the Taliban’s continued denial of fundamental rights.
“All expressed their deep concern about the Taliban’s continued denial of the most basic human rights and fundamental freedoms … especially Afghan women and girls … as well as the recent restriction on female Afghan staff accessing UN compounds,” the statement read.
The envoys further condemned the Taliban’s “shutdown of internet services” and called for “the full restoration of internet access for all Afghans.”
Humanitarian challenges also featured prominently in the talks. The group highlighted the impact of last month’s earthquake in eastern Afghanistan, the mass deportations of Afghan migrants from Iran and Pakistan, and the urgent need to prepare aid before winter.
They emphasized the importance of a UN-led Comprehensive Approach to Afghanistan and voiced hope that the incoming UN Special Representative would ensure coordinated leadership.
On governance, the representatives stressed that Afghanistan’s future depends on pluralism and inclusivity.
“Political pluralism and inclusive governance are required for Afghanistan to truly succeed,” the statement said, urging the Taliban to show “more willingness to engage constructively and in good faith with the international community.”
The joint statement follows a separate meeting last week in which China, Russia, Iran, and Pakistan also expressed concern over the presence of terrorist groups in Afghanistan.
The Taliban have not responded to either set of discussions but have previously denied that international terrorist groups operate on Afghan soil.
