Islamic Emirate Encourages UNAMA’s Continued Engagement, Emphasizes Afghan Priorities

Last Updated on March 17, 2024 4:28 am

In a surprising move, the Islamic Emirate expressed its approval of the extension of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan’s (UNAMA) mandate, urging the organization to align its mission with the genuine interests of Afghan citizens.

Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, conveyed the Emirate’s stance, emphasizing the need for UNAMA to accurately reflect the ground realities of Afghanistan in its reports and activities. Mujahid underscored that UNAMA’s mission should address a broad spectrum of issues pertinent to both the United Nations and the Afghan populace.

Beyond the endorsement from the Islamic Emirate, global institutions have also implored UNAMA to prioritize humanitarian concerns within Afghanistan.

Amnesty International, while lauding the mandate extension, urged UNAMA to intensify its focus on the dire human rights situation in the country, especially concerning the rights of women, girls, and minority groups. The organization stressed the importance of continued human rights reporting and advocated for sustained pressure on the Taliban to uphold fundamental rights.

Political affairs expert Tariq Farhadi emphasized that while UNAMA’s role is crucial, certain responsibilities, such as reopening girls’ schools and upholding constitutional rights, fall within the purview of the caretaker government. Farhadi highlighted the imperative for proactive measures in fulfilling these promises.

Echoing similar sentiments, Human Rights Watch emphasized the necessity for concerted efforts to safeguard human rights in Afghanistan. Heather Barr, Associate Director of Human Rights Watch, commended the unanimous extension of UNAMA’s mandate, signaling continued international concern regarding human rights abuses under the Taliban regime. Barr stressed the pivotal role of UNAMA’s human rights unit in monitoring the evolving situation.

The Islamic Emirate’s unexpected support for UNAMA’s mandate extension underscores a potential shift in dynamics, with both local and international stakeholders urging concerted efforts to address pressing humanitarian and human rights issues within Afghanistan. UNAMA’s role in navigating these challenges while remaining impartial and reflective of Afghan realities will be closely watched in the months ahead.

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