UNAMA, the political mission of the United Nations, states that women and girls with disabilities in Afghanistan are exposed to multiple forms of discrimination and violence, including domestic violence and sexual abuse.
In a statement issued on the occasion of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, UNAMA praised the resilience, achievements, and leadership of persons with disabilities worldwide and in Afghanistan, emphasizing the importance of the slogan “Empowering Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future.”
The statement indicates that this slogan reflects the key role of persons with disabilities in decision-making, policy development, and social leadership.
The UN political mission in Afghanistan has urged the caretaker government to recognize the contributions of persons with disabilities to sustainable development in Afghanistan and to support the full implementation of relevant laws and policies, including the Law on the Rights and Privileges of Persons with Disabilities and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Additionally, the statement highlights the need to strengthen cooperation with organizations representing persons with disabilities and civil society.
It states that efforts should be made to amplify the voices of persons with disabilities and to remove systemic barriers that hinder their participation, particularly for women and girls.
UNAMA added that despite the inspiration and strong will of persons with disabilities in Afghanistan, many face significant barriers to accessing education, employment, healthcare, and participation in public life.
The organization notes that women and girls with disabilities are particularly vulnerable to various forms of discrimination and violence, including domestic violence and sexual abuse.
The statement emphasizes the necessity for meaningful changes to address these challenges.
Furthermore, Richard Bennett, the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Afghanistan, also wrote in a message on his X account: “Today, on International Day of Persons with Disabilities, I stand with millions of citizens with disabilities in Afghanistan and call for local and global actions to protect their rights and amplify their voices. Let us strive for inclusion, dignity, and equal opportunities for all.”
Mr. Bennett urged all stakeholders, including the current government, humanitarian organizations, civil society, and the international community, to support the leadership of persons with disabilities and ensure they have a role in decision-making and future policymaking in Afghanistan.
