The Afghan Rainbow Organization has expressed concern over what it describes as increasing pressure and restrictions on women, protesters and members of the LGBTQ community in Afghanistan.
In a statement, the organization said that dozens of women have reportedly been detained in recent days over alleged violations of dress regulations, while public demonstrations have faced responses from Taliban forces.
According to the statement, some protests were dispersed through the use of force and direct gunfire, resulting in reports of civilian casualties and injuries.
The organization also criticized the European Union’s decision to invite Taliban representatives to Brussels, arguing that the move raises political and human rights concerns.
In its statement, the group described the situation of LGBTQ individuals in Afghanistan as “extremely vulnerable.”
The organization claimed that transgender women, gay, bisexual and other members of the LGBTQ community face risks including detention, violence, forced marriage, discrimination and limited access to justice.
The Afghan Rainbow Organization called on the international community and global human rights institutions to closely monitor developments in Afghanistan and ensure that concerns related to women’s rights and minority rights remain part of any political engagement with the Taliban.
The group further urged international actors to prioritize human rights protections when shaping policies toward Afghanistan.
The statement comes amid continuing debate over the human rights situation in the country and increasing international scrutiny of restrictions affecting women and other vulnerable groups.
The Taliban have not issued an official response to the organization’s latest statement.
