UNAMA Urges Protection of Fundamental Freedoms in Afghanistan on Human Rights Day
The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), in its statement marking International Human Rights Day, called on all institutions and communities to work towards safeguarding the fundamental freedoms and rights of the Afghan people. The mission emphasized that human rights are an inseparable part of daily life and are essential for dignity, opportunity, and security.
Referring to this year’s global theme, UNAMA stated that human rights are not abstract concepts but conditions that enable individuals to lead meaningful lives. These include the right to education, access to healthcare, employment, freedom of expression, and social participation. The mission warned that a large number of Afghan citizens remain deprived of these basic rights.
UNAMA highlighted that women and girls, in particular, face severe restrictions in education, employment, and public life — a situation that not only violates their rights but also undermines the country’s future. It added that reduced access to healthcare services has made families and communities even more vulnerable.
UNAMA also expressed concern over the increasing number of Afghan refugees being forcibly returned from other countries. According to the mission’s findings, groups such as women, former government and security personnel, civil society members, and journalists are especially vulnerable to retaliation and other forms of human rights violations.
Georgette Gagnon, head of UNAMA and deputy special representative of the UN Secretary-General for Afghanistan, stated: “Human rights are not optional — they are essential for human existence. Guaranteeing the right to education, work, and social participation for women and girls is vital for the reconstruction of Afghanistan.”
Fiona Frazer, representative of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights in Afghanistan, also stressed that the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, ratified 77 years ago, remain the cornerstone of human values. She added: “Education, healthcare, livelihoods, and freedom are rights that must be ensured for every Afghan, yet many are still deprived of them.”
In conclusion, UNAMA called on the Taliban authorities, Afghan communities, and international partners to uphold human rights as the foundation of hope and stability for the country. The statement reaffirmed the Taliban administration’s responsibility to lift restrictions and respect the human dignity of all citizens.
