Parliamentary Search

Written question asked by Marquess of Lothian (Conservative) on Friday, 16 April 2021, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Friday, 30 April 2021. It was answered by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Conservative) on Thursday, 29 April 2021 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Afghanistan: Women

Question

To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans they have to ensure that the rights of women in civil society in Afghanistan, including the right to education for girls, are protected following the withdrawal of UK and NATO troops in September.

Answer

The UK remains committed to supporting Afghanistan on its path to a more peaceful and positive future. We will continue to work closely with the UN, Afghanistan and our international partners to intensify peace efforts as NATO forces drawdown.

The UK has assisted in the significant improvement in the rights of all Afghans, including women and minorities. There are 8.2 million more children in school now than in 2002, including 3.7 million girls. However, only a negotiated and inclusive settlement will safeguard the rights and freedoms that Afghans want and deserve. We will continue to make clear to all sides that any political settlement must protect progress, including protection for women and minorities.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL15010
Session
2019-21
Subjects
Armed forces Women Education Human rights Afghanistan NATO Military intervention Women's rights
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk