Canada and Australia Reaffirm Support for Afghan People, Condemn Taliban Repression

In separate statements, both countries expressed grave concern over the Taliban’s systematic repression, particularly the severe restrictions imposed on women and girls, including their exclusion from education, employment and public life. They also highlighted concerns over the suppression of journalists, human rights defenders and civil society, persecution of minorities, and the absence of inclusive governance.

Canada stated that it would not support the normalization of relations with the Taliban without demonstrable progress on human rights, inclusive governance and fundamental freedoms. Australia similarly reaffirmed its commitment to holding the Taliban accountable and supporting international efforts to protect the rights of the Afghan people.

Both countries also underscored their continued humanitarian commitment. Canada has provided more than US$315 million in life-saving humanitarian assistance since 2021, in addition to over US$143 million for basic needs, while Australia has delivered A$310 million in humanitarian assistance since September 2021.

Canada and Australia reaffirmed that the Afghan people must not be abandoned and called for continued international efforts to safeguard their rights, dignity and aspirations for a peaceful, stable and secure Afghanistan.