UNITED NATIONS, June 16: The UN Security Council unanimously adopted a resolution on Monday extending the mandate of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) until June 17, 2027, while urging the Taliban to reverse its crackdown on women and girls and uphold fundamental human rights.
The resolution authorises UNAMA to continue supporting humanitarian aid deliveries without discrimination and to promote inclusive governance with the full, equal and meaningful participation of women, minorities, youth and persons with disabilities. It comes amid growing international concern over the Taliban’s restrictions on women, including bans on education beyond primary school and limits on employment opportunities.
The move follows reports that at least 30 women were arrested in the western city of Herat for allegedly violating the Taliban’s strict dress code. According to UNAMA, a protest against the arrests was violently dispersed by Taliban police, leaving one person dead and several others injured.
The Security Council also voiced concern over the presence of militant groups in Afghanistan. Pakistan has repeatedly accused the Taliban of harbouring militants responsible for cross-border attacks, a claim the Taliban denies.
In addition, the resolution authorises UNAMA to facilitate dialogue between the Taliban, regional countries and the international community, while supporting Afghanistan’s economic recovery, financial activity and efforts to return central bank assets for the benefit of its people. (AP)
