The International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor has made a significant move by applying for arrest warrants against two Taliban leaders, including the supreme spiritual leader Haibatullah Akhundzada. These warrants are sought on the grounds of crimes against humanity, particularly focusing on the widespread discrimination against women and girls in Afghanistan. The ICC's action highlights a firm stance against the unprecedented and ongoing persecution faced by Afghan women and girls under Taliban rule.
Since the Taliban regained power in Afghanistan on August 15, 2021, they have enforced a strict set of moral codes aligned with Islamic sharia law. This has led to the detention of thousands for alleged violations. The ICC prosecutor condemns these actions, asserting that the Taliban's interpretation of sharia law cannot justify human rights abuses or crimes. The prosecutor's request for arrest warrants is now pending review by a three-judge panel.
"Afghan women and girls as well as the LGBTQI+ community are facing an unprecedented, unconscionable and ongoing persecution by the Taliban. Our action signals that the status quo for women and girls in Afghanistan is not acceptable." – Karim Khan
The investigation into the Taliban's actions represents one of the longest pursuits by ICC prosecutors, having initiated a preliminary examination back in 2007. Despite facing numerous legal and practical delays, a full-scale investigation commenced in 2022. This demonstrates the ICC prosecutor's commitment to holding accountable those responsible for gender-based crimes in Afghanistan.
The Taliban's return to power in 2021 marked a severe clampdown on women's rights, contributing to the ongoing crisis. The ICC prosecutor's office remains resolute in its pursuit of justice, ensuring that such gender-based persecution is neither overlooked nor tolerated.
"They are 'criminally responsible for persecuting Afghan girls and women, as well as persons whom the Taliban perceived as not conforming with their ideological expectations of gender identity or expression, and persons whom the Taliban perceived as allies of girls and women,' the statement said." – Karim Khan
"bear criminal responsibility for the crime against humanity of persecution on gender grounds." – Karim Khan
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