© UNICEF/M. Naphthalene Students at a UNICEF-supported girls’ school in Herat, Afghanistan (June 2022). A year without access for Afghan women to UN premises: Secretary General calls for all restrictions to be lifted Women
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reiterated his deep concern about the Taliban’s discriminatory policies against Afghan women and girls. This is stated in a statement issued by his official representative Stephane Dujarric on Sunday. A year ago, de facto authorities banned Afghan women from accessing UN premises in the country.
“Restrictions on women’s full participation in public life, education and work in many areas violate their fundamental rights and remain a serious obstacle to Afghanistan’s economic development, stability in the country and its reintegration into the international community,” the Organization emphasizes. country.
“These restrictions are contrary to international law, including the UN Charter, and undermine the Organization’s ability to fulfill its mandate and provide life-saving aid and other support to the Afghan people in the face of continued high needs,” the statement noted. objectives and support to vulnerable groups, especially women and girls, taking into account local cultural traditions.
The Secretary-General reiterated his call on the de facto authorities of Afghanistan to immediately lift the ban on Afghan women serving at the UN and ensure their safe and unhindered access to the Organization’s premises throughout the country.
60~p>He also called on the Taliban to lift all restrictions imposed on women and girls and guarantee their right to equal and full participation in all aspects of Afghan society.