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Hazaras in Afghanistan
07 June 2023
Lead MP
Paul Bristow
Responding Minister
Andrew Mitchell
Tags
Community SecurityForeign AffairsWomen & Equalities
Word Count: 3127
Other Contributors: 3
At a Glance
Paul Bristow raised concerns about hazaras in afghanistan in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
I ask the Government to thoroughly investigate these crimes, bring perpetrators to justice, protect the Hazara people in Afghanistan, and implement recommendations from the inquiry into the situation of Hazaras in Afghanistan, including monitoring their situation, collecting evidence, conducting an inquiry into sexual violence against Hazaras, recognising their specific targeting for asylum resettlement, assessing access to humanitarian aid, engaging with neighbouring countries, imposing Magnitsky sanctions, calling upon the Taliban government to investigate atrocities and bring perpetrators to justice.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
I am concerned about the persecution and discrimination faced by Hazaras in Afghanistan. Over a century, they have suffered from targeted massacres, denial of education and political rights, and ongoing attacks on places of worship, schools, hospitals, and other venues. In recent years, there have been numerous attacks resulting in deaths and injuries, including an attack on a Hazara girls high school that killed over 100 students and injured over 160 others, and another attack at an education centre that killed more than 60 female Hazara students and injured over 100. The persecution continues under the Taliban regime.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Commends the hon. Gentleman for bringing the debate forward and being a champion in this House for the Hazaras, highlighting their long history of discrimination and violence. Reliably intervened in support of oppressed groups around the world, emphasizing the importance of addressing human rights abuses against the Hazara community.
Mohammad Yasin
Con
Bedford
Mr Mohammad Yasin expressed concern over the escalation of violence against Hazaras in Afghanistan post-international troop withdrawal, highlighting sustained attacks on mosques, girls' schools and workplaces. He cited a Human Rights Watch report indicating that Shi'a minorities have been subject to suicide bombings and ongoing attacks despite Taliban rhetoric claiming protection for all ethnic groups. Highlighted extensive support and knowledge regarding the Hazara community's issues, advocating for more action to protect minority rights.
Taiwo Owatemi
Lab
Coventry North West
Congratulates the hon. Gentleman on securing an important debate, emphasising that the Government must heed recommendations from the UN special rapporteur's report regarding protection for the Hazara community. Spoke briefly but eloquently about the plight of Hazaras and the need for inclusive governance in Afghanistan.
Government Response
Andrew Mitchell
Government Response
The UK Government closely monitors human rights abuses against Hazaras in Afghanistan. They report on summary executions, enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, torture, and forcible eviction. The minister detailed actions taken by the government including urging the Taliban to engage in constructive dialogue with all Afghan society, supporting credible monitoring mechanisms, and engaging regularly with Afghans, including Hazaras, to reflect their needs. On 24 May, officials met a representative from the Hazara National Congress. The minister emphasized ongoing efforts to press the Taliban on human rights concerns, support the UN special rapporteur, and ensure inclusive governance for all Afghans.
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About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.