In a statement regarding the matter, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade noted that Australia, Germany, Canada, and the Netherlands will initiate a process to hold the Afghan administration accountable under international law for violating CEDAW.
The statement, which included the phrase, "We call on Afghanistan to engage in negotiations as provided for under the Convention," also conveyed the message that Australia has a strong commitment to protecting and supporting the rights of women and girls worldwide.
Stating that the fundamental human rights of women and girls in the country are being "disregarded" through "systematic oppression," the statement added, "We will not stand by and watch the situation in Afghanistan become the new normal."
According to media reports, if the Afghan administration does not come to the negotiating table within 6 months, the matter is expected to be referred to the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Hamdullah Fitrat, Deputy Spokesperson for the Afghan interim government, rejected the accusations against their administration in a statement regarding the issue.
Fitrat claimed that there are no human rights violations or gender discrimination in Afghanistan.
News Source: 12punto
