UNAMA Acting Head: Political Engagement Continues Through Doha Process

Jorjit Ganiyon, acting head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), stated at a press conference that political engagement with Afghanistan continues through the Doha process.

"We continue to pursue principled and pragmatic political engagement through the Doha process," she said. "This is the only structured multilateral platform in which the concerns of the people of Afghanistan, the international community, and the Islamic Emirate can be raised in a fair and constructive manner."

Ganiyon emphasized the importance of the UN's presence for advancing political dialogues, coordinating humanitarian assistance, and monitoring human rights in the country.

She criticized certain decisions by the Islamic Emirate, particularly restrictions on women and girls and the ban on Afghan female UN staff attending their workplaces. "These restrictions harm the country's development, disrupt the aid delivery process, and hinder Afghanistan's reintegration into the international system; and ultimately harm women, girls, families, and Afghan society," Ganiyon said.

Afghan female UN staff are continuing to provide humanitarian assistance from home and through alternative means, she added.

Ganiyon also warned of the impact from the Middle East crisis and regional instability on Afghanistan, including disruptions in trade and supply routes that have increased prices of basic goods and raised the possibility of a new wave of Afghan migrants returning.

She expressed concern about ongoing conflicts between Afghanistan and Pakistan, stating that airstrikes and clashes have disrupted the humanitarian aid process and caused civilian displacement.