Afghanistan’s UN Envoy Stresses Inclusive Participation as Key to Sustainable Peace
Nasir Ahmad Faiz, acting head of Afghanistan’s mission to the United Nations, stated that achieving lasting peace and stability in Afghanistan is only possible through inclusive political dialogues and the genuine participation of all segments of society. Speaking during the vote on the extension of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), he emphasized that the mission must play a more active and effective role in facilitating this process.
Faiz noted that recent years have shown that political exclusion and monopolization not only fail to bring stability but deepen existing crises. He warned that sidelining various parts of society from power structures creates distrust and perpetuates instability – a reality that is clearly visible in Afghanistan’s current situation.
The acting representative stressed that every political process must involve meaningful participation of women and men, different ethnic and religious groups, youth, civil society, political actors, and persons with disabilities. In his view, only an inclusive framework can lay the foundations for a legitimate and sustainable political system.
He also highlighted that UNAMA is obligated to carry out its mission fully, impartially, and effectively, focusing especially on facilitating political dialogues among the diverse Afghan parties. According to Faiz, these dialogues must involve all legitimate stakeholders, both inside and outside the country, to pave the way for a comprehensive solution.
While the Taliban administration maintains a centralized power structure without holding electoral processes, many political and civil society groups have criticized the lack of broad participation in key decision-making. Faiz underscored that building trust and supporting an inclusive political process are vital in Afghanistan’s complex political and social context.
He called on the international community to insist on principles of inclusivity, respect for human rights, and participation of all societal groups in their engagement with Afghanistan. Faiz remarked that the Afghan people continue to view the UN as a neutral institution and expect it to play an active and constructive role in securing lasting peace and stability.
In conclusion, Faiz stressed the need to strengthen UNAMA’s mandate and continue international efforts to advance an inclusive and sustainable political process in Afghanistan.
