New Report by @SR_Afghanistan , UN Special Rapporteur on Afghanistan - February 24, 2025 The new report by Richard Bennett, the UN Special Rapporteur on Afghanistan, was released today. In this 20-page report, the human rights situation in Afghanistan is discussed, with a particular focus on the dire situation of the LGBTQ community. One of the key points highlighted in the report is the discriminatory laws and harsh punishments against LGBTQ individuals in Afghanistan. Key Points from the Report: 1.Criminalization of Homosexuality: Homosexuality was punishable by death during the first Taliban regime, and it was also considered a crime during the Republic era, although the punishment was reduced to imprisonment. 2. The "Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice" Law: This law criminalizes same-sex relations, and religious police (Hisba) are obligated to report such offenses. 3. Physical Punishments under the Taliban: Same-sex relations under the Taliban are subject to physical punishment and imprisonment. Some individuals have been sentenced to harsher punishments such as being "buried alive." 4. Increase in Punishments: In 2024, after the enactment of the "Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice" law, reports show an increase in physical punishments, especially for "sodomy." 5. Greater Risks for LGBTQ Individuals: Those convicted of homosexuality, especially when these "crimes" are revealed to their families and communities, face greater risks of violence and discrimination. Survivors of sexual violence may also be punished and are at risk of being victimized again. Richard Bennett, the UN Special Rapporteur, warns that LGBTQ individuals in Afghanistan continue to face threats and discrimination, and there must be greater attention to human rights in the country. #HumanRights #LGBTQ #Afghanistan #LGBTQRights