Australia on Saturday imposed financial sanctions and travel bans on four Taliban officials over deteriorating human rights in Afghanistan. The measures target those restricting freedoms of women and girls, especially in education and work. Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the officials undermined good governance and the rule of law.
The sanctions apply to three Taliban ministers and the chief justice, accused of limiting women’s access to employment, education, and public life. Wong said the restrictions “directly oppress the Afghan people” and violate basic human rights.
Read more: Army responds to ‘unprovoked fire’ by Afghan Taliban at Chaman
Australia’s new framework allows direct imposition of sanctions and travel bans to pressure the Taliban over human rights violations. The government stressed that targeted measures aim to influence policy while holding leaders accountable.
Since regaining power, the Taliban has been criticized internationally for strict gender rules, including bans on girls’ schooling and women working outside the home. The group claims its policies respect women’s rights under Islamic law and local customs.
Read more: Afghan Taliban carry out public execution in sports stadium
Australia has also welcomed thousands of Afghan evacuees, mostly women and children, while the population continues to rely heavily on humanitarian aid. Officials urged the international community to maintain pressure to protect rights and freedoms.