The United Nations seeks a leading role for women in decision making at all levels in Afghanistan’s peace process that is expected to enter a new phase in the coming weeks or months.
UN in its statement on International Women’s Day, says that to give Afghan women a leading role in peace, there they need support from all sectors of society as well as from the government and the international community.
The statement said, “2021 brings a historic opportunity for a lasting peace that will benefit all Afghans.
This is also an opportunity to showcase the strengths of Afghanistan’s women leaders in all their diversity. When today’s women leaders are respected and supported, more girls will be encouraged to follow their path.”
“Peace process has brought to the fore strong Afghan women leaders, who have negotiated on behalf of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and rallied support in their communities for a peaceful solution to the conflict. Empowering these women, and expanding women’s participation, will be critical to ensure a just and sustainable peace that protects the rights of all Afghans,” said Deborah Lyons, the Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Afghanistan.
“Afghan women have proven that their skills, knowledge and fierce determination have pushed their country towards the peaceful and prosperous future that Afghans yearn for. Today, Afghanistan stands before an opportunity unlike any other in the country’s history. Afghanistan can build back a better, stronger country for every woman, girl, man and boy. To do so, women must be at the front and centre of decision-making, to achieve a peace that lasts, for a bright future for all Afghans,” said Aleta Miller, UN Women Representative in Afghanistan.
International Women’s Day is observed every year on 8 March to rally and build support for women’s rights and participation in every sphere of life.
