UN's new Afghanistan mandate focuses on equality, inclusion

The U.N. Security Council has approved a robust mandate for its political mission in Afghanistan following the Taliban takeover last August

UNITED NATIONS -- The U.N. Security Council on Thursday approved a robust mandate for its political mission in Afghanistan following the Taliban takeover last August. The new mandate authorizes the mission to promote gender equality, empowerment of women and girls, human rights of all Afghans and an inclusive and representative government.

The Norwegian-drafted resolution was adopted by a vote of 14-0, with Russia abstaining.

Norway’s U.N. Ambassador Mona Juul said the Security Council sent a clear message that the U.N. mission, known as UNAMA, “has a crucial role to play in promoting peace and stability in Afghanistan and in supporting Afghan people as they face unprecedented challenges and uncertainty.”

The U.S. deputy ambassador, Jeffrey DeLaurentis, called the vote “an important step” that underscores the U.N.’s commitment to the Afghan people as they face “urgent and mutually reinforcing challenges.”