Geneva—UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk expressed grave concern over a recent announcement by Afghanistan’s de facto authorities that they threatened to revoke the licenses of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that employ Afghan women. In a statement issued from Geneva, Türk described the decision as “absolutely the wrong path,” warning of severe consequences for Afghanistan’s already dire humanitarian situation.
The directive, communicated in a letter dated December 26 by the de facto Ministry of Economy, requires all national and international NGOs to adhere to a two-year-old decree barring the employment of Afghan women. Türk criticized this discriminatory measure, emphasizing the critical role NGOs play in delivering life-saving aid to millions of Afghans, including women and children, who make up the majority of the population in need.
“The humanitarian situation in Afghanistan remains dire, with more than half the population living in poverty. This measure will directly impact the ability of the population to receive humanitarian aid,” Türk stated.
The High Commissioner urged Afghanistan’s de facto authorities to revoke the decree and other restrictive measures that deny women and girls access to education, work, public services, and basic freedoms such as healthcare and movement.
“No country can progress—politically, economically, or socially—while excluding half of its population from public life,” Türk warned. He called for a change in course, highlighting that Afghanistan’s future hinges on inclusivity and equal opportunities for all its citizens.
The international community has repeatedly condemned the erosion of women’s rights in Afghanistan, which has intensified since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021. This latest development adds to growing concerns over the impact of these policies on humanitarian aid delivery and the broader stability of the country.
