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The federal government has established an autonomous sanctions framework for Afghanistan as part of continued efforts to keep the Taliban’s operations accountable.
The autonomous sanctions, which build on the existing sanctions established by the United Nations Security Council, seek to increase pressure on the Taliban in response to their oppression and treatment of the population.
In a statement from Foreign Minister Penny Wong, she stated that “the Australian government remains deeply concerned at the deteriorating situation in Afghanistan”.
“The Taliban continues to demonstrate contempt for the rights, freedoms and welfare of the Afghan people, particularly women and girls.”
The framework will see a range of measures being implemented against Afghanistan, including imposing restrictions on supplying arms and assets and providing technical and training services. The sanctions will also see travel bans established for high-ranking Taliban members.
The travel bans will apply to “three so-called Taliban ‘ministers’ and the so-called Taliban ‘Chief Justice’ for their involvement in the oppression of women and girls and in undermining good governance or the rule of law”, Minister Wong said.
Since Kabul fell under the Taliban offensive action in 2021, a myriad of governments, nations and human rights organisations have expressed concern over the treatment of its citizens, specifically for women and girls who are experiencing severe public life restrictions, such as no access to education past a sixth grade level, banning women’s voices in public, and major restrictions on freedom of movement without a male chaperone.
Since 2021, Australia has provided upwards of $260 million in humanitarian aid and assistance, with an additional $50 million allocated to provide in assistance for 2025–26.
Australia is the first country to establish an autonomous sanction framework for Afghanistan, which Wong said is “strengthening our approach to the worsening situation”.
Australia has existing autonomous sanctions in place against Iran, Russia and North Korea.
