Mujtaba Harris

I remain deeply concerned by the continuing discriminatory policies imposed by the Taliban on Afghan women & girls, which affect every aspect of their lives. Restrictions on their full participation in public life, education & many areas of work violate their fundamental rights & remain a critical impediment to Afghanistan’s economic development, stability & reintegration into the international community. It has been one year since Afghan women have been prevented from accessing UN compounds across the country. These restrictions are contrary to international law, including the UN Charter, and undermine the organization's capacity to carry out its mandate & deliver life-saving and other assistance to the Afghan people at a time when needs remain high. I reiterate my call on the de facto authorities to immediately reverse the ban on Afghan women working for the @UN, and to ensure their safe & unhindered access to UN premises throughout the country. I further urge the de facto authorities to lift all restrictions imposed on women & girls, and to uphold their rights to full, equal & meaningful participation in all aspects of Afghan society.