46th Session of the UPR Working Group, Review of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Statement by Minister-Counsellor SHIOTA Takahiro (29 April 2024)

 
　Thank you, Mr. Vice-President.
 
　More than two and a half years have passed since the Taliban takeover in 2021. While Japan acknowledges signs of improvement in the economy and security in Afghanistan, little progress has been made in addressing the human rights situation, particularly with regards to women and girls. Japan strongly recommends immediately withdrawing all measures that restrict the enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms by Afghan women and girls, including access to education and employment, and freedom of expression.
 
　Japan also recommends facilitating inclusive and non-discriminatory measures, as well as political processes, that enable all Afghans, including those from ethnic and religious minority backgrounds, to participate in public and political life.
 
　Finally, reiterating the importance of combating terrorism and promoting security and prosperity in Afghanistan and the surrounding region, Japan recommends taking effective measures against the persisting threat of terrorism in Afghanistan, in accordance with relevant international law, especially international human rights law.
 
　I thank you.