UN Security Council Extends Afghan Mission for One Year

UN News

UN headquarters.

The UN Security Council on Monday unanimously approved a resolution extending the mandate of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) for another year, ensuring the mission will continue operating through June 17, 2027.

The ⁠15-member council unanimously in favor ⁠of the extension in ⁠a text drafted by China.

Announcing the result, the council president said the draft resolution had received 15 votes in favor and was adopted unanimously.

The vote follows months of discussion among Security Council members over the future of UNAMA, the United Nations’ principal political mission in Afghanistan.

In March, the Council departed from its usual practice of annual renewals and extended UNAMA’s mandate for only three months, while requesting a broader review of the mission’s priorities and effectiveness under current conditions in Afghanistan.

The newly adopted resolution restores UNAMA’s customary one-year mandate and calls for a strategic review of the mission by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

Established in 2002 following the fall of the Taliban’s first regime, UNAMA serves as the United Nations’ main presence in Afghanistan. The mission monitors political and human rights developments, coordinates international humanitarian efforts and facilitates engagement between Taliban and the international community.

Since the Taliban returned to power in August 2021, UNAMA has played a central role in documenting human rights conditions, including restrictions on women and girls, while coordinating humanitarian assistance for millions of Afghans facing economic hardship and food insecurity.

Negotiations over the mandate renewal revealed divisions among Security Council members on issues including engagement with Taliban, the future of the UN-led Doha Process and the scope of the mission’s responsibilities.

Despite those differences, members ultimately agreed to extend the mission’s mandate for another year, reaffirming the United Nations’ continued presence and engagement in Afghanistan.

The resolution takes effect immediately and will remain in force until 17 June 2027.



PUKMEDIA