Australia imposed financial sanctions and travel bans on four senior Taliban officials on Saturday.
Canberra cited a worsening human rights situation in Afghanistan as the basis for its decision.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the targeted officials contributed to widespread oppression.
She stated that they undermined governance and restricted fundamental freedoms under Taliban rule.
The sanctions mark a significant shift in Australia’s approach to post-2021 Afghanistan policy.
Australia withdrew its troops in 2021 alongside other NATO partners.
Its forces previously fought the Taliban and trained Afghan security forces for two decades.
Canberra now focuses on humanitarian support and policy pressure rather than military engagement.
Women and Girls Remain Central to International Criticism
The Taliban has faced sustained global criticism since returning to power in Afghanistan. They imposed sweeping restrictions on women’s education and employment opportunities. They also enforced limitations on movement and participation in public life for women.
Australia cited these measures as key factors behind the new sanctions.
Taliban leaders reject international criticism and defend their policies.
They claim their decisions follow Islamic law and established local customs.
However, international observers view the restrictions as severe violations of basic rights.
Sanctions Reflect Australia’s New Human Rights Framework
Wong said the sanctions fall under a new Australian framework for targeted measures. The framework allows direct sanctions against entities responsible for rights violations. Canberra intends to increase pressure on the Taliban without harming Afghan civilians.
The sanctions target three Taliban ministers and the group’s chief justice. Wong accused them of systematically denying women access to essential freedoms. She emphasized that Australia will continue responding to rights abuses in Afghanistan.
Australia Continues Humanitarian Engagement With Afghan Civilians
Australia evacuated thousands of Afghans following the Taliban takeover. Many evacuees were women and children seeking urgent protection. Canberra continues offering humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan’s vulnerable population.
Large segments of Afghanistan’s population now depend on aid for survival. Australia states that its sanctions aim to protect civilians rather than punish them. The new measures underscore growing international frustration with Taliban policies.
