Child trafficking in Afghanistan, response of the Commission

Parliamentary Questions

WRITTEN QUESTION E-3021/03

Submission: Anna Karamanou (PSE) to the Commission

(03 October 2003)

E-3021/03EL

Answer from Mr. Patten

on behalf of the Commission

(6.11.2003)

Recent reports from Afghanistan regarding child abductions are causing concern for the Commission, which is particularly pleased with the decision of the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) to send a child rights expert to northern Afghanistan.

The Commission and the member states have committed to creating a strong judicial system and police force to ensure the effective enforcement of the law in Afghanistan.

Germany is the main sponsor for police reform. By December 2003, a total of 5,000 new and existing police officers will have received training, and Germany will expand police training to the provinces. To support this program, the Commission contributed 10 million € in 2002 to the Special Fund for Legislation and Rule of Law (which pays police salaries and training), and in 2003, it will provide an additional 15.5 million €. In addition to this, during 2003-2004, an additional 60 million € will be allocated to the Special Fund for Legislation and Rule of Law (LOTFA).

Italy is the main sponsor for judicial reform. To date, 20 million dollars have been spent on reforming the judicial system, including the renovation of buildings in Kabul and the training of 120 legal professionals. In 2003, the Commission and Italy co-financed with 6 million € the restoration of judicial centers at the regional level and the training of local staff.

The new constitution will also be of crucial importance. The statement at the Afghanistan conference on September 21, 2003, in Dubai, emphasized the importance of respecting human rights for all, including women and children. The statement notes that “the EU acknowledges that Afghanistan recognizes its obligations under international law, particularly regarding human rights, and expects that these obligations will be fully upheld in the new constitution.” The Troika in Afghanistan on October 19-20, 2003, highlighted the importance of fulfilling these obligations.