On Friday, August 15, the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a strong statement marking the fourth anniversary of the Taliban’s return to power, declaring that France will employ “every available tool” to improve the situation for the people of Afghanistan.
France becomes the third European nation—after Ireland and Germany—to release a statement on this anniversary, with all three taking a clear stance against the Taliban.
The French statement criticized the group’s disregard for international commitments, noting that the Taliban have consistently violated the terms set out in UN Security Council Resolution 2593, adopted in 2021. France reaffirmed the need for the Taliban to comply with those obligations, particularly regarding human rights and inclusive governance.
Resolution 2593 emphasizes the protection of human rights—especially those of women, children, and minorities—and calls on all parties to pursue a political solution that is inclusive and representative. The resolution also demands the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women and the preservation of the achievements made during the two decades of the republic.
France once again condemned the “serious and systemic violations” of the rights of Afghan women and girls, stating that the Taliban are effectively attempting to “erase half the population” through their policies. The ministry called the ban on women’s education in medical institutes “unjustifiable and unacceptable.”
Reaffirming its commitment, France stated it remains fully mobilized in support of the people of Afghanistan, emphasizing that its support will continue through specific, on-the-ground humanitarian projects.
