UN rights expert says Afghan ban a backwards step

The United Nations' special rapporteur on human rights in Afghanistan said Wednesday the Taliban's ban on him entering the country sent a troubling signal about their engagement with the wider world.

Richard Bennett called the ban a retrograde step that should be reversed -- but vowed he would continue to document human rights violations in Afghanistan.

"The Taliban's public announcement that they will no longer grant me access to Afghanistan is a step backwards and sends a concerning signal about their engagement with the United Nations and the international community on human rights," he said in a statement.

Since returning to power in August 2021, Taliban authorities have enforced their rule based on a strict interpretation of Islamic law.

Women have borne the brunt of restrictions the UN has labelled "gender apartheid", which have pushed them from public life.

They have been barred from secondary and higher education, as well as blocked from working in many jobs or entering public parks, gyms and travelling without a male relative.

The Taliban government remains unrecognised by any other state, with its restrictions on women a key sticking point.

In recent months, Bennett issued strong statements on women's rights in Afghanistan at moments when the country was in the international spotlight.

Taliban authorities have dismissed criticism of their policies.

"Despite this announcement... I will continue to engage with the people of Afghanistan, both inside and outside the country, as well as other relevant stakeholders," said Bennett, adding he had not travelled to the country in over a year.