Four years after the Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan, the situation facing the Afghan people remains a profound concern for the international community. The political, humanitarian, economic and human rights crises that have developed since August 2021 continue to affect millions of Afghans, while the country’s future remains deeply uncertain. In this context, France reaffirms its solidarity with the Afghan people and its determination to use all the means at its disposal to contribute to improving their living conditions. France’s position is grounded in a clear distinction between the Afghan population, whose rights, dignity and well-being must be protected, and the policies pursued by the Taliban authorities, which France continues to condemn when they violate international obligations and fundamental rights.
The fourth anniversary of the Taliban’s return to power provides an opportunity to assess the consequences of their rule and to reiterate the responsibilities that accompany the exercise of authority. Since taking control of Kabul by force in August 2021, the Taliban have faced repeated calls from the international community to respect Afghanistan’s international commitments, protect the rights of its citizens and prevent the country from once again becoming a source of instability and international insecurity.
