New York: The Afghan people have been facing decades-long humanitarian crises marked by poverty, conflicts, and climate shifts, which demand serious support from the international community, stated a UN official.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Roza Otunbayeva, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Afghanistan, addressed the UNSC meeting on Afghanistan's situation, emphasizing that the de facto authorities have selectively adhered to international obligations. She highlighted that this selective adherence impacts not only potential political progress but, more critically, the well-being of Afghanistan's population. Otunbayeva pointed out that international developments, budget limitations, and the government's increasing focus on internal issues threaten to exacerbate poverty, weaken Afghanistan, and heighten its isolation.
Otunbayeva, who also heads the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), stressed that international obligations should not hinder political decisions, which must prioritize the welfare of the Afghan people.
Addressing human rights concerns, the UN official noted the significant restrictions on women, despite international objections, and criticized the bans on education and work for women and girls, particularly in light of the recent International Women's Day celebrations.
She affirmed that the UN and international partners have made decisions to increase humanitarian aid, aligning it with basic human needs to demonstrate support for the Afghan population.
Otunbayeva reiterated that mechanisms preventing Afghanistan's reintegration with the international community remain in place. She added that the UN's comprehensive plan for Afghanistan aims to address major obstacles hindering the country's efforts to reconnect with global partners.