UN ban on Afghan women workers in offices marks one year
The United Nations Women’s section has said that the ban on Afghan women employees entering the organisation’s offices across Afghanistan remains in place after one year and has reduced the UN’s ability to deliver aid to women and girls.
The body said on Monday, 16 Sunbula, that the restriction is “unprecedented” in the UN’s 80-year history. According to the UN, barring Afghan women staff has made it difficult to provide assistance tailored to the cultural needs of women and girls.
The UN added that without the presence of Afghan women staff, it becomes difficult to effectively reach women and girls and provide appropriate services for them. It stressed that despite the restriction, Afghan women have continued over the past year to provide livelihood services, health care, and psychosocial support.
The ban has continued as the Taliban administration’s restrictions on women’s education, work and social participation in Afghanistan have also widened. At the same time, these restrictions have challenged parts of the United Nations’ humanitarian operations in Afghanistan.
The United Nations is one of the main aid agencies in Afghanistan, and a large share of humanitarian assistance reaches those in need through its affiliated organisations.
