KABUL: In a concerning development, Taliban authorities in the southern province of Kandahar, Afghanistan, have issued orders to halt the work of female aid workers in refugee projects. The Taliban accused aid agencies of violating their instructions in Spin Boldak, a town near the Pakistan district of Kandahar, a spokesperson for the provincial governor confirmed.
The letter, addressed to the departments of the Taliban’s refugee ministry, instructed all partner organizations working with the Department of Refugees and Repatriation in Spin Boldak to ask their female colleagues to refrain from attending work and stay at home until further notice. This directive has raised concerns about the impact it may have on the provision of crucial humanitarian assistance in the region.
UN Seeking Clarification from Taliban Regarding the Matter
The United Nations’ humanitarian coordination office has acknowledged the instruction and is seeking clarification from the Taliban regarding this matter. The letter highlights the prevailing uncertainty faced by aid agencies operating in Afghanistan.
Earlier this year, the Taliban banned women from working with the United Nations and its agencies, triggering international condemnation. While the Taliban has defended this decision as an internal matter, it has posed significant challenges for aid organizations seeking exemptions to allow female staff from Afghanistan to continue their vital work and provide much-needed humanitarian assistance to the people.
