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12 September 2022, 51th Session of the UN Human Rights Council Item 2: Enhanced Interactive Dialogue on human rights situation of women and girls in Afghanistan (HRC res. 50/14) Statement delivered by the Permanent Representative Ambassador Darius Staniulis

Thank you, Mr President,

Lithuania fully aligns with the EU and Nordic-Baltic statements.

Regardless of its international obligations and repeated calls from the international community, the Taliban continues its widespread institutionalised oppression of women and girls.

Women and girls in Afghanistan, especially in the rural areas, remain imprisoned in their homes, deprived of education, career and other opportunities to participate in public life. They face a heightened risk of abuse and exploitation, including for labour, sexual purposes, and forced marriages.

Lithuania stands in full solidarity with all women and girls of Afghanistan who, despite the frustration, harassment, threats of death, arrests, detentions and torture continue to protest across the country, striving to make their voices heard.

Any negotiations about Afghanistan will not be durable without equal and meaningful involvement of women in the process.

We commend the decisive role of the UN Special Rapporteur, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human rights and UNAMA. We must ensure that their actions are focused on a localised analysis of a gender perspective, which would help to seek accountability.

All Afghans, including women and girls, deserve to live in safety, security and dignity, fully enjoying their human rights.

I thank you.