UN Rapporteur Urges Probe and Accountability Woman’s Suicide in Ghor

The UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Afghanistan, Richard Bennett, has called for an investigation and accountability following the reported self-immolation of a young woman in Ghor province.

In a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday, May 1, Bennett expressed condolences to the victim’s family and emphasized the need for a thorough inquiry into the incident.

He wrote: “Devastating reports of suicide of young woman in Ghor, Afghanistan. My thoughts are with family. Investigation & accountability needed.”

Bennett linked the tragedy to systematic gender oppression in Afghanistan and stressed the urgent need for expanded mental health support.

Since the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021, Afghan women have faced sweeping restrictions across all areas of life. Experts say that increasing social pressure, domestic violence, and a lack of hope for the future have contributed to a rise in suicide rates among Afghan women.