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Rep. Norman Introduces Resolution Condemning Taliban Treatment of Afghan Women and Girls

Washington, D.C., September 30, 2021 | Austin Livingston (803-833-0030)
Earlier today, U.S. Rep. Ralph Norman (R-SC-5) introduced H.Res. 694, a resolution in the House of Representatives condemning the human rights violations targeted toward women and girls in Afghanistan under Taliban rule.
 
The Taliban has publicly claimed a more “progressive” view toward women's rights, but the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights have received credible reports of serious violations of international human law and human rights taking place in many areas under Taliban control.
 
These violations include executions of civilians and members of the Afghan national security forces, restricting the rights of women and girls to move around freely and attend schools, recruitment of child soldiers, and repression.
 
The Resolution does the following: 
  • Condemns any actions taken by any terrorist organization or form of government in Afghanistan to oppress women and girls. 
  • Demands the Taliban regime preserve and advance the right to liberty, freedom of movement, education, self-expression, and employment for all women and girls, guided by international human rights principles.
  • Recognizes that the protection of civilians, especially women and girls, and religious minority groups in Afghanistan remain of paramount concern both domestically and internationally.
 
Original co-sponsors of this resolution include Rep. Stephanie Bice (R-OK-05) and Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA-02).
 
After introducing this resolution, Rep. Norman issued the following statement: "Today I urge Congress to officially condemn the recent oppression of women, girls, and religious minority groups in Afghanistan. I maintain that the safety of Afghan civilians, especially those who are most vulnerable, remain a critical concern. Congress should condemn the Taliban’s actions and be devoted to preserving the dignity of all Afghan citizens."
 
Rep. Bice added, “It is heartbreaking to witness the violence and oppression Afghan women and girls endure under Taliban control. We must do all that we can to protect them during this extremely volatile time.”