Recommendations to Afghanistan

Norway`s statement during the 32nd UPR session of the Human Rights Council on the human rights situation in Afghanistan held on the 21st of January 2019. The statement was delivered by Minister Counsellor Herborg F. Alvsåker.

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President,

Norway notes the positive steps taken and appreciates considerable degree of conformity between Afghanistan’s legislative framework and international Human Rights obligations, (as was recommended by Norway in the 2014 UPR). Norway also appreciates efforts to improve women’s situation, but remains worried about quality of implementation. Norway commends the follow-up of Afghan Independent Human Rights Commission’s recommendations.

Norway recommends to:

  1. Promptly investigate and prosecute cases of violence against women in line with international human rights standards, including so-called honor killings.

  2. Ensure protection of schools, education and pupils in accordance with Afghanistan’s commitment as a signatory of the Safe School Declaration [in Oslo, May 2015 and in line with SDG goals].

  3. Take further concrete measures to improve conditions for journalists and human rights defenders

  4. Promptly and thoroughly investigate all allegations of torture of detainees, enforced disappearances and summary executions, and prosecute those responsible in line with international human rights standards.

Thank you.