Spain reaffirms human rights commitment to Afghanistan

Spain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation has reaffirmed its commitment to freedom and human rights in Afghanistan, marking five years since the Taliban returned to power. Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares stated that diplomatic normalization cannot occur without respect for human dignity.

Since taking control, the Taliban has enforced a system of gender apartheid, including prohibiting girls from pursuing education beyond secondary school. Recent measures, such as Decree 18 issued in May, have intensified these restrictions by legitimizing child marriages and increasing male guardianship over matrimonial decisions.

While the Taliban regime has called for peace and peaceful coexistence with the international community, it has also warned against external interference in its governance. The Afghan people continue to face a severe humanitarian crisis under the current administration.