Afghan women crucial to the United Nations’ work for the people of Afghanistan

UN Women strongly reaffirms calls for the de facto authorities to lift restrictions preventing Afghan women staff and contractors from accessing UN premises in Afghanistan.

We stand in solidarity with our colleagues, and with all women who put themselves at risk every day to work for the people of their country. We honour their professionalism, dedication and courage.

This latest serious disruption comes as Afghan women are providing urgent humanitarian assistance and essential services to women and girls in earthquake-affected areas of eastern Afghanistan, as well as to those returning from Iran and Pakistan.

I have seen their leadership firsthand – last week in an informal settlement for families displaced by the earthquake in Kunar province, and this week at the Iran border, and nearby communities, where they are supporting returnees and displaced women.

Having women in these humanitarian roles is especially vital, to ensure women and girls can safely access the life-saving aid and services they need. Support must be delivered by women, for women.

Afghan women are indispensable to the UN’s work. This new restriction on women’s rights to work, and to participate in society, is a profound setback for women themselves and for Afghanistan’s recovery and resilience.

At this critical time, Afghan women working with the United Nations must be able to continue their work without these prohibitions or restrictions. This is important for women, their families and the country as a whole.