ISLAMABAD: United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres urged Afghanistan’s de facto authorities to immediately reverse a ban preventing Afghan women from working at UN offices across the country.
Guterres’ appeal comes as the restriction marks its first anniversary, with the UN saying the ban has undermined its ability to carry out its mandate and deliver humanitarian assistance to Afghans.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Guterres said he remains deeply concerned over the continuing discriminatory policies against Afghan women and girls.
He said restrictions on women’s participation in public life, education and employment violate their fundamental rights and pose a critical obstacle to Afghanistan’s economic development, stability and reintegration into the international community.
In his statement, Guterres said the restrictions are inconsistent with international law, including the UN Charter, and weaken the organization’s capacity to deliver life-saving assistance at a time when humanitarian needs in Afghanistan remain high.
He stressed that all UN personnel need safe and unhindered access to their workplaces to effectively carry out their duties and reach vulnerable communities, particularly women and girls.
Women’s role in humanitarian response
"Allowing women to participate in humanitarian work is particularly important because female personnel play a crucial role in delivering assistance and essential services to Afghan women and girls," the UN chief said.
He called on the Taliban to ensure Afghan women working for the UN can safely and freely access UN premises throughout the country.
Guterres also urged the Afghan authorities to remove all restrictions imposed on women and girls and uphold their right to full, equal and meaningful participation in all aspects of Afghan society.
The Taliban regime has previously maintained that women’s rights are protected within the framework of Islamic Sharia. The authorities have not issued a new response to Guterres’ latest appeal.