The UN Security Council on Monday called for an immediate end to violence and for the restoration of order in Afghanistan following the Taliban’s takeover of the country, expressing concerns about reported serious violations of international humanitarian law and human rights abuses.

The Taliban took control over Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan, on Sunday. President Ashraf Ghani fled the country and the government collapsed. Law students in Afghanistan have been reporting to JURIST on the current situation expressing concerns especially for women and about totalitarianism.

Security Council members also called for inclusive negotiations to form a new government that is “united, inclusive and representative – including with the full, equal and meaningful participation of women.” The council stressed that institutional continuity, international obligations, and the safety and security of citizens must be ensured. 

UN Secretary-General António Guterres called on all parties to provide humanitarians with unimpeded access. Guterres stated that he was “particularly concerned by accounts of mounting human rights violations against the women and girls of Afghanistan who fear a return to the darkest days.” He also urged all countries to be willing to receive refugees and refrain from deportations adding that “We cannot and must not abandon the people of Afghanistan.”