Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 30 September 2021
69. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the diplomatic action Ireland is taking in relation to the protection of the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47059/21]
View answerI remain extremely concerned about the situation of women and girls in Afghanistan and continue to highlight the issue at the United Nations and with the European Union.
On 16 August, at an emergency Security Council meeting, Ireland reiterated calls on the Taliban to comply with international humanitarian and human rights law, particularly in respect of women and girls.
On 30 August, following intensive work by Ireland with other Council members, the Security Council adopted Resolution 2593/21 including important language proposed by Ireland on ensuring the full, equal and meaningful participation of women as part of a negotiated political settlement.
On 09 September, as UNSC President, I chaired a meeting on Afghanistan which discussed the extension of the mandate for the UN Assistance Mission. I stressed the importance of respecting human rights, including the rights of Afghan women and girls to education, healthcare, and to full participation in public life.
At the level of the European Union, I participated in discussions on Afghanistan with EU Foreign Ministers and EU Defence Ministers on 2-3 September, as well as a further meeting of Foreign Ministers on the margins of the UN General Assembly in New York on 20 September. EU Council Conclusions were agreed, which set five key benchmarks for future engagement with Afghanistan including the promotion, protection, and respect for all human rights, in particular the full enjoyment of rights of women and girls, including meaningful participation of women in decision-making positions.
On 27th September, at the current session of the Human Rights Council, Ireland delivered a national statement expressing grave concern about the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan, while we continue to strongly support a proposed EU led resolution calling for an independent monitoring mechanism on human rights.
Finally, the Department and relevant Irish Embassies are actively involved in supporting those granted refugee status in Ireland. Approximately 150 have arrived in Ireland to date, while Ireland has provided an additional €1 million to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees for urgent support.
