Richard Bennett (UN)

Richard Bennett is the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan. He assumed this role on May 1, 2022, succeeding Javaid Rehman.

As Special Rapporteur, Bennett is tasked with monitoring the human rights situation in Afghanistan, reporting on violations, and making recommendations to the UN Human Rights Council and the broader UN system on how to improve the protection of human rights in the country. His mandate encompasses all aspects of human rights, including civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights. He focuses particularly on the impact of the Taliban's policies on the rights of women and girls, religious and ethnic minorities, and other vulnerable groups.

Prior to his appointment as Special Rapporteur, Bennett had a long career in human rights, particularly focusing on the Asia-Pacific region. He has worked for various international organizations and governments, including the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), where he served as a human rights officer. He possesses extensive experience in human rights monitoring, investigation, and advocacy.

Bennett regularly presents reports to the UN Human Rights Council and the General Assembly, outlining the human rights challenges in Afghanistan and making recommendations for action. He also engages with the Taliban authorities, civil society organizations, and victims of human rights violations to gather information and advocate for change. His work is critical in keeping international attention focused on the human rights situation in Afghanistan and in promoting accountability for abuses.