G7: Afghanistan Needs Inclusive Government, Respect for Women’s Rights
DID Press: In a two-day meeting held in London from September 29-30, special envoys on Afghanistan, along with representatives from G7 member said, the European Union, and several international partners, underscored the need for inclusive governance, respect for women’s and girls’ rights, and regional cooperation to combat terrorism.
The meeting was attended by representatives from Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Norway, Switzerland, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Georgette Gagnon, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations and Head of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), also participated and delivered a special report.
In the final statement issued by the United Kingdom, which holds the rotating presidency of the G7, the countries reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the people of Afghanistan and providing aid to vulnerable communities.
Participants expressed grave concerns over the security threats and terrorist risks emanating from Afghanistan, calling for enhanced regional and global cooperation to combat terrorism.
The statement also condemned the Taliban’s restrictions on fundamental freedoms, particularly those targeting women and girls in areas such as education, employment, healthcare, and social participation. It described the Taliban’s ban on Afghanistan women entering UN offices as “unacceptable.”
G7 members also issued a warning over the nationwide internet shutdown in Afghanistan, emphasizing that the move isolates Afghanistan population from the rest of the world, disrupts humanitarian activities, and harms the economy.
The meeting addressed humanitarian challenges, including the aftermath of the recent earthquake, the return of Afghanistan refugees from neighboring countries, and the need to prepare for winter season. The role of international financial institutions, such as the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank, in continuing essential services was also highlighted.
Participants reviewed the United Nations’ “comprehensive approach” to Afghanistan and stressed the need for greater coordination within the UN system, including the role of the new UN Secretary-General’s special representative.
The meeting concluded that long-term stability in Afghanistan will not be possible without inclusive governance and political pluralism. G7 countries called on the Taliban to engage constructively and in good faith with the international community.