UNICEF Urges Taliban to Lift Ban on Women Working in UN Offices in Afghanistan
UNICEF has called for the immediate lifting of the Taliban-imposed ban on women employees working in United Nations offices in Afghanistan, six months after the restriction was first introduced. On the occasion of International Women’s Solidarity Day, the agency stressed that the continued enforcement of this ban seriously hampers the delivery of essential services to Afghan citizens.
On Sunday, March 7th, UNICEF issued an official statement demanding justice, respect for rights, and concrete actions to support Afghan women. The organization emphasized that women’s presence in the workforce, especially in humanitarian sectors, is vital for effective access to children and families.
According to UNICEF, female staff play a key role in implementing health, education, and support programs, and their exclusion from the workplace directly affects both the quality and reach of services. Many families, particularly women and girls, can only access crucial assistance through female employees.
The UN Women entity had previously called for the ban to be lifted. International organizations have repeatedly warned that the restrictions imposed by the Taliban on women not only violate their fundamental rights but also undermine humanitarian aid efforts in the country.
Despite these appeals, the Taliban administration has yet to announce a new position regarding the lifting of this ban, a situation that continues to raise widespread concern among aid agencies and human rights advocates.
