Key Message from the Resident Representative, UNDP Afghanistan 

As we mark 25^th November to 10^th December, to commemorate the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, I want to reaffirm UNDP’s unwavering commitment to tackling gender inequality and the pervasive violence that continues to harm women globally, and particularly here in Afghanistan.

The 16 Days of Activism presents an opportunity to renew our commitments, call for actions as we approach the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action in 2025 – a blueprint for achieving gender equality and women’s and girls’ rights. This year also marks the 24^th anniversary of UN security Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security (WPS); and the ninth Year of the 2030 Agenda Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

While we reflect on the progress made in advancing women's rights, we cannot ignore the immense setbacks that women in Afghanistan face, which has reached a critical point, where deepening socio-economic hardships, systemic exclusion, and oppressive restrictions have left women vulnerable to violence and disenfranchisement.

In Afghanistan, the effects of gender inequality are stark—almost 1 in 2 women experiencing violence, while 80 percent of women and girls are denied secondary and tertiary education, and 76 percent of women have lost access to employment opportunities. These challenges are compounded by rising child marriage rates and one of the highest maternal mortality rates globally. These figures are not just statistics; they represent lives deeply affected by the intersection of gender-based violence, poverty, and systemic discrimination.

Despite these challenges, there is hope. Yet, the path to change requires us to be bold, and persistent. At UNDP, we are dedicated to empowering Afghan women by focusing on critical areas that will make a tangible difference in their lives. Our programming prioritizes economic empowerment through micro-finance, vocational training, and small business support to reduce women's dependence and enhance their resilience. We are also increasing access to training and integrating psycho-social support that addresses the overall emotional well-being of women entrepreneurs and their employees as individuals. In collaborating with other UN agencies, we are providing complementary initiatives, such as solar energy support to health and education facilities with improved supply systems for healthcare services to reduce maternal mortality. We also recognize the crucial role of media and digital access in amplifying Afghan women’s voices. As we advocate for their safe access to education, economic opportunities, and the digital space, we remain steadfast in supporting Afghan women in reclaiming their rights and dignity.

The road ahead remains challenging, but with continued investment, collaboration, and support from our partners, we can help transform the lives of Afghan women and girls. Together, we can create a future where Afghan women live free from violence, discrimination, and fear—empowered to realize their full potential. We would like to recognize the "He for She" initiative, which promotes positive masculine values in support of women's rights”.

On this important occasion, I call on all of us to renew our commitment to gender equality and the elimination of gender-based violence, standing in solidarity with Afghan women as they continue to inspire us with their resilience and courage.

Let us be the change that Afghan women deserve, today and every day.

#16Days of Activism #EndGBV #AfghanWomen #Empowerment #UNDP #Beijing30 #UNiTE to End Violence against Women #HeForShe