Richard Bennett: Afghan Diaspora to Play Key Role in Afghanistan’s Future

DID Press: Richard Bennett has called on Afghans living abroad to remain hopeful and actively contribute to shaping the country’s future, saying the diaspora will play a decisive role in Afghanistan’s long-term direction.

Speaking at a special session on Afghanistan in the French Parliament, Bennett emphasized that the Afghan diaspora can significantly influence political, social, and economic developments in the country. He urged Afghans abroad to keep hope alive and channel it back into Afghanistan.

He also stated that international attention and Afghan engagement should remain focused on the country’s future and the well-being of its population.

Bennett described the sweeping restrictions imposed by the Taliban on women and girls as a clear form of “gender apartheid,” adding that global efforts to criminalize such practices represent a positive step.

He warned that Afghanistan’s human rights situation—particularly regarding women’s rights—remains deeply concerning and stressed that the international community should not remain silent.

Former Afghan intelligence chief Rahmatullah Nabil also addressed the session, warning that if the Afghan diaspora fails to become a strong voice for change, the country risks being sidelined once again and its future decided by external powers.

Bennett, who has served as UN Special Rapporteur on Afghanistan for four years, said two years remain in his mandate and invited Afghan voices abroad to share their perspectives for his ongoing work.