Alongside extending UNAMA’s mandate, the UN Security Council reaffirmed the importance of continued humanitarian assistance, support for human rights, particularly the rights of women and girls, and efforts to counter terrorist threats in Afghanistan.
The resolution did not endorse Russia’s proposal to grant the Taliban access to the frozen assets of Afghanistan’s central bank. However, it called on UNAMA to support efforts to facilitate access to these assets for the benefit of the Afghan people.
The Security Council stated that UNAMA should continue its work in close consultation with all relevant Afghan political actors and stakeholders, particularly the relevant authorities, and in support of the Afghan people, in a manner consistent with Afghan sovereignty, leadership and ownership.
The resolution identified Afghanistan’s humanitarian and economic crisis, the continuing erosion of human rights, especially those of women and girls, and the threat posed by terrorist groups as among the country’s most pressing challenges.
Dire humanitarian and economic situation
The Security Council described Afghanistan’s humanitarian and economic conditions as dire and stressed the need to strengthen humanitarian assistance and meet the population’s basic needs. It urged the international community to improve coordination of aid efforts and ensure full, rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access across the country.
The resolution also highlighted the importance of supporting development programmes aimed at strengthening Afghanistan’s long-term self-reliance and called for greater coordination among international donors to promote economic and social stability.
Deteriorating rights of women and girls
The Security Council expressed deep concern over the continued deterioration of human rights and fundamental freedoms, particularly the rights of women and girls. It warned that peace, stability and prosperity in Afghanistan would remain unattainable without the protection of these rights and freedoms.
The council called on the Taliban to immediately reverse all policies and actions that contradict Afghanistan’s international human rights obligations. It also urged the Taliban to guarantee full access for Afghan women employed by the United Nations to UN offices and facilities throughout the country.
The resolution further emphasised support for equal access for women and girls to education, employment, healthcare, justice and other essential services, as well as their full, equal and meaningful participation in public life and decision-making processes.
Concerns over terrorist threats
The Security Council described the presence and activities of terrorist groups in Afghanistan as a serious threat to international peace and security and stressed the need for effective counterterrorism measures.
The council reaffirmed the continuation of measures against individuals and groups subject to UN sanctions and called for stronger regional and international cooperation to address security threats.
The resolution also highlighted the need to prevent the illicit trade and transfer of small arms and light weapons in Afghanistan and the wider region.
Pakistan has previously expressed concern about Pakistani militants gaining access to weapons left behind by Afghanistan’s former army. While the Taliban have denied these claims, the resolution reflects concerns raised by Islamabad.
UNAMA’s mandate for the coming year
The resolution requests the UN Secretary-General to conduct a strategic review of UNAMA and submit a report to the Security Council by the end of March next year.
Jennifer Locetta, the United States representative at the meeting, welcomed the review and stressed the need for a mission that is effective and fit for purpose.
Anna Evstigneeva, Russia’s representative to the United Nations, said Moscow supports a strategic review of UNAMA, but argued that it should be conducted in coordination with the Taliban authorities and focus on humanitarian and development needs rather than becoming a tool for advancing Western interests.
Under the resolution, UNAMA will continue facilitating dialogue among Taliban officials, regional countries, the international community and civil society to encourage compliance with international obligations and support Afghanistan’s integration into the global community.
UNAMA has also been tasked with supporting efforts to establish an inclusive, representative and accountable government in which women, young people, minorities and persons with disabilities can participate meaningfully and safely in political processes.
Supporting mine-clearance programmes, reducing the risks posed by unexploded ordnance, strengthening regional cooperation, and reporting on Afghanistan’s political, security, economic and human rights situation will remain among the mission’s key responsibilities.
The resolution requires the UN Secretary-General to submit a report on Afghanistan and the implementation of UNAMA’s mandate every three months. It also calls for a further strategic review of UNAMA’s structure and performance by the end of March 2027 to improve effectiveness and strengthen coordination among UN agencies operating in Afghanistan.
Central bank assets
The Security Council also asked UNAMA to support efforts to facilitate access to Afghanistan’s central bank assets for the benefit of the Afghan people.
The resolution states that UNAMA should coordinate with donors and international institutions to support legitimate commercial and financial activities and contribute to Afghanistan’s development priorities and economic self-reliance.
The provision comes as a portion of Afghanistan’s central bank reserves remains frozen abroad following the Taliban’s return to power. China and Russia have consistently supported granting the Taliban access to these funds.
The Security Council further reaffirmed the United Nations’ central role in Afghanistan and called on UNAMA to mediate dialogue among Afghanistan’s relevant authorities, regional countries, the international community and civil society to promote constructive engagement.
Under the resolution, UNAMA will continue coordinating humanitarian assistance, monitoring and reporting on political, security, economic and human rights developments, supporting inclusive governance and meaningful participation by women, and serving as the central pillar of UN activities in Afghanistan.
