UNHCR Stresses Continued Support for Afghans and Engagement with Taliban Administration
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) emphasized during his first visit to Afghanistan that the international community cannot ignore the country and must continue supporting Afghans, especially returning migrants. At the same time, he stressed the necessity of expanding engagement with the Taliban administration to address existing challenges.
In talks with the media, he described Afghanistan as having special significance from the perspectives of regional and global security, as well as human values and human rights. According to him, neglecting Afghanistan’s situation benefits neither its people nor regional stability.
After meeting with Taliban officials, the head of the UN agency stated that creating an appropriate environment for global organizations to operate in Afghanistan is an essential requirement for expanding international cooperation. He noted that without adequate working conditions for aid organizations, the process of effective humanitarian assistance would face difficulties.
He identified education—especially girls’ education—the participation of women in society, and the provision of opportunities for all citizens as fundamental prerequisites for Afghanistan’s progress. He emphasized that depriving half of society of participation presents a serious obstacle to development and humanitarian aid delivery. In his words, women and girls constitute a vital part of the country’s human capital, and their access to education is a fundamental necessity.
These remarks come amid widespread international criticism of the restrictions imposed by the Taliban on women’s education and employment, considered one of the main reasons for the decline in global cooperation with Afghanistan.
The UNHCR chief also called for de-escalation of tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, underscoring that disputes must be resolved through dialogue. He warned that continued tension could create opportunities for extremist and armed groups to exploit the situation, stressing that the region needs peace and cooperation more than ever.
In another part of his speech, he spoke about the return of Afghan migrants from neighboring countries, stating that this process must be voluntary, safe, and dignified. He added that the United Nations is in contact with Iran and Pakistan and emphasizes adherence to international commitments towards migrants.
