Any setbacks in human rights are simply unacceptable and can compromise the sustainability of peace processes, the United Nations’ envoy in Afghanistan said Monday.
Tadamichi Yamamoto said this marking the International Human Rights Day.
“While Afghanistan has achieved much in human rights, the challenges remain daunting, especially as a result of the ongoing armed conflict and fragile security environment that continue to cause persistent high numbers of civilian casualties,” Yamamoto said in a statement released by the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan.
The UN remains steadfast in working closely with all Afghan institutions in overcoming the remaining challenges, including a justice system that is able to fully implement the progress the country has made in legislative reform and in constitutional provisions guaranteeing women’s rights and the elimination of violence against women, the statement said.
“Combating impunity and redress for victims of human rights abuses must be prioritized, as accountability for human rights abuses establishes necessary foundations for a just society,” said Yamamoto, who is also head of UNAMA. “Protecting human rights relies on implementing laws so the most vulnerable are genuinely shielded from abuse.”
As efforts for peace have accelerated, the statement said that the UN will continue to seek assurances that all parties to the conflict respect and work with human rights defenders.
“Human rights is at the heart of the work of the United Nations and is core to its activities in Afghanistan where we are privileged to work in support of the Afghan people,” said Yamamoto. “The values enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights are especially important to protect in the context of any future peace negotiations; any setbacks in human rights are simply unacceptable and can compromise the sustainability of peace processes.”
