UN Security Council Extends UNAMA Mission in Afghanistan for Another Year

Nasir Ahmad Faiq, the Representative of Afghanistan to the United Nations, welcomed the decision and emphasized that "the extension of UNAMA's mission is a testament to the international community's commitment to addressing Afghanistan's dire situation." He added that the presence of this body in Afghanistan is essential for monitoring human rights violations, particularly the situation of women and girls, promoting peace and stability, and supporting inclusive governance.

Faiq also referred to Afghanistan’s multiple challenges, including the severe economic crisis, widespread human rights violations, and terrorist threats, warning that the Taliban's failure to establish a just and inclusive government has pushed Afghanistan towards "isolation and poverty." He called for UNAMA to operate transparently and impartially in delivering humanitarian aid to those in need, urging the body to prioritize the initiation and facilitation of inclusive dialogue in Afghanistan alongside other aspects of its mission.

Dorothy Shea, the acting U.S. representative to the UN, also welcomed the extension of UNAMA’s mission, stressing the importance of the agency’s reports in informing the Security Council about Afghanistan’s situation. She called for strengthening UNAMA’s efforts to promote human rights in Afghanistan, particularly concerning women and girls, and urged the Taliban to take practical steps in combating terrorism and fulfilling their international commitments.

Anna Evstigneeva, Russia’s deputy representative to the UN Security Council, described cooperation between UNAMA and the Taliban as essential, emphasizing that sustainable peace in Afghanistan can only be achieved with a comprehensive and realistic approach. She also interpreted the Security Council’s support for UNAMA’s efforts as a strong global commitment to lasting peace in Afghanistan, calling for the lifting of sanctions imposed on Afghanistan under Taliban rule.

Fu Cong, China’s representative to the UN, stated that the extension of UNAMA's mission reflected the strong support of the organization for Afghanistan. He stressed the importance of increased engagement with the Taliban to achieve positive and visible results in the future.

It is noteworthy that the UNAMA, following the Taliban's takeover of the country, is responsible not only for political efforts but also for overseeing and managing humanitarian aid. During this period, UNAMA has frequently expressed concerns about the human rights situation in Afghanistan and has criticized the Taliban’s policies against women and girls.

The extension of UNAMA’s mission comes despite recent statements from Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban’s spokesperson, who remarked that the presence of this office in Afghanistan had not been "effective."