A suicide bomber blew himself up inside a crowded Shi'ite Muslim mosque in Afghanistan's capital late Thursday, killing at least six people and wounding many others.

Islamic State, through its global mouthpiece the Amal News Agency, claimed responsibility for the bombing.

Witnesses at Kabul's Al Zahra mosque reported that police guards identified and tried to intercept the bomber, but he opened fire at them and forced his way into the worship place.

Relatives and friends confirmed that a prominent trader and leader of the minority Hazara community, Ramzan Hussainzada, was among the dead.

An Afghan Interior ministry spokesman condemned the blast as a "terrorist attack." It occurred when all mosques around the city were crowded as Muslims observe the holy month of Ramadan.

Kabul's Shi'ite community has been the target of suicide attacks in the past, including an attack on a mosque in November that killed more than 30 people.

A Taliban spokesman denied its involvement, saying the insurgents do not attack mosques. Loyalists of Islamic State have taken credit for some of the recent terrorist attacks in Kabul.

VOA correspondent Ayaz Gul from Pakistan contributed to this story.

Gavi Board agrees to extend support for inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) to 2020; new policy on fragile settings, emergencies and refugees also approved

Geneva, 15 June 2017 – Support for the introduction of inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) will be extended to 2020 in up to 70 low- and middle-income countries, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance announced today. The Gavi Board decision will enable routine immunisation programmes to reach millions more children with this critical vaccine and support the final drive towards eradication.

“We now have a unique opportunity to consign polio to the history books, but we cannot afford to be complacent,” said Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Chair of the Gavi Board. “We cannot and will not rest as long as any child anywhere in the world is at risk of contracting this terrible disease. Gavi fully supports the Global Polio Eradication Initiative and partners, and this decision means we will continue to work together as we edge ever closer to a polio-free world.” 

As transmission of wild poliovirus has not yet been stopped, the target date for global certification of eradication has had to be pushed back by at least two years – from 2018 to 2020 at the earliest. Polio remains endemic in three countries – Afghanistan, Nigeria and Pakistan. Five wild poliovirus cases have been recorded since the beginning of the year: three in Afghanistan and two in Pakistan.

Moreover vaccine supply constraints have delayed introductions or interrupted IPV use in some Gavi-supported countries. To date 53 countries have introduced IPV to their immunisation programme with Gavi support. Until all poliovirus cases are fully eradicated and contained all countries are at risk, especially those with weak vaccine coverage levels.

The cost of extending support to 2020 is projected to be up to US$ 250 million which will be financed by additional funding raised by the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) and by existing funds from Norway, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the UK Department for International Development (DFID). The Gavi Board decision should provide reassurance to countries and manufacturers of Gavi’s continued support for IPV and polio eradication. 

“We will need to evaluate Gavi support to IPV beyond 2020 to make sure that the disease doesn’t re-emerge after global certification,” said Dr Seth Berkley, CEO of Gavi the Vaccine Alliance. “The vaccine will have to be assessed differently from other vaccines based on its value to the global public good. Polio eradication will rank as one of the greatest achievements in the history of global health, reflecting the combined efforts of funders and of hundreds of thousands of scientists, health workers and ordinary vaccinators over three decades.”

Ensuring continued high immunisation coverage of children in the poorest countries is critical to protect children everywhere from the spread of infectious diseases.

NEW POLICY ON FRAGILITY, EMERGENCIES AND REFUGEES

Gavi operates in many of the most fragile settings where health needs are often the greatest. These circumstances require a different approach to ensure children get the vaccines they need. The Gavi Board approved a new policy on Fragility, Emergencies and Refugees to enable a rapid and tailored response in these settings.

“As climate change, conflict and economic crises continue to drive people from their homes and devastate health systems, we must make sure that the weakest and most vulnerable are not excluded from receiving life-saving vaccines,” added Dr Berkley. “Good health is a fundamental human right. It is unacceptable that hundreds of thousands of child refugees or children trapped in war-torn countries are excluded from receiving basic health services, including vaccines.”

Gavi-supported host countries will for instance be able to request additional support to immunise refugees. In the case of emergencies, countries can request flexibility in the vaccine application process or while implementing Health System Strengthening (HSS) support. Where needed, the new policy enables Gavi to work more directly with partners and non-state actors including civil society organisations (CSO) operating in affected areas.

Lastly, the Board decided that, due to the on-going conflict, Yemen will continue to receive Gavi support in spite of co-financing challenges that the country is facing.

Youngsters at refugee camps in northern Greece have had their first ever dental appointments, thanks to Doctors of the World’s Mobile Dentistry Unit funded by the European Commission. Led by dentist Sofia Kouva, the three-person team has been at refugee camps in Ioannina and Thessaloniki, teaching youngsters how to care for their teeth, parents how to help, and of course giving their teeth a polish and shine as well.

Though Syria had a good dentistry service before its civil war broke out, many children who have escaped since 2011 have never had the chance to have appointments to see an oral health specialist, so the team’s visits were the first chance for them to learn more about dental hygiene and how to maintain it – as well as an opportunity for Sofia and her team to get a better idea of the challenges and problems at the camps.

To make the appointments convenient for most children – and to ensure as many as possible aged three and above were seen – the team coincided their visits with a programme of vaccinations being run at the refugee camps at Ioannina and Thessaloniki.

At one of the camps, Sofia explained, "Often, parents at the camps do not bring their children to the dentist unless they are in severe or constant pain. So this is a perfect chance to find all the children together in one place at the same time. We are running a fluoridisation treatment for the children, and dental hygiene advice, including showing children how to brush properly and advising adults what to watch for, and how to encourage children to maintain good dental hygiene and practices."

Sofia and her team, who are also registering children for follow-up appointments for their next visit, have found that there is an – often urgent – need for dental hygiene advice and treatment at the camps.

"The diet here is very bad for people’s teeth. For example, they have a chocolate croissant for breakfast, and this combines with the fact that children are not brushing their teeth properly. That’s one of the reasons we’re teaching oral hygiene."

"Some of the Syrian adults have very good teeth, but there seems to be a difference between them and the Afghans. It’s often said that in Afghanistan, there has been war for 15 years, but in fact there has been conflict there for around 40 years. Under those circumstances – when you consider all the ways war destabilises people’s lives – the dentist is one of the first things to be dropped. So in some camps I am seeing 35 year-olds who have never visited the dentist," explains Sonia..

"For the Syrian children, the same thing is happening. There has been war for five years and taking your child to a dentist is not a priority in war. When you face that kind of instability, you save money – one way is by not taking yourself or your children to the dentist. When people are on the move, their first priority is to keep their children safe, not to check their children’s teeth."

But as Sofia explained, they are now in the middle of the settlement process.

"They need to be motivated to get new health habits, because they will hopefully have new places to live soon, and we can help them to start getting their lives back to normal, and safeguarding their teeth is part of that. Teeth are important, and war should not cause generations to lose them."

Last updated 16/06/2017

Key messages:

• Each year millions of people are forced to leave their homes and seek refuge from conflicts, violence, human rights violations, persecution or natural disasters. The number of forcibly displaced people (refugees, asylum-seekers and internally displaced people) has continued to rise in 2016, calling for increased humanitarian assistance worldwide. The majority of today's refugees live in the developing world, which means that they flee to countries already struggling with poverty and hardship.

• The EU is a leading international donor in forced displacement situations. In 2016 it gave over €1972 million for humanitarian assistance dedicated to refugees and IDPs. This funding covers projects that help the forcibly displaced access shelter, protection, food and other basic services such as health, nutrition, water, sanitation and education.

• In April 2016, the European Commission adopted a new development-led approach to forced displacement, aimed at harnessing and strengthening the resilience and self-reliance of both the forcibly displaced and their host communities. The new approach stipulates that political, economic, development and humanitarian actors should engage from the outset of a displacement crisis, and work with third countries towards the gradual socio-economic inclusion of the forcibly displaced. The objective is to make people's lives more dignified during displacement; and ultimately, to end forced displacement.

In May 2017, Action on Armed Violence recorded 3,223 deaths and injuries caused by explosive violence around the world, as reported in English-language media. Civilians accounted for 82% (2,649) of the deaths and injuries recorded.

This represents a 48% increase in the number of civilians killed or injured compared to April 2017, when there were 1,794 civilian deaths and injuries.

At least one death or injury from explosive violence was recorded in 24 countries last month. The five worst impacted countries were Syria, Afghanistan, Iraq, the UK, and Pakistan, according to civilian casualties from explosive violence.

The UK’s place amongst the worst impacted countries is a rare occurrence. Last month, AOAV recorded 222 civilian deaths and injuries in the UK. These were all caused by one incident when a suicide bomber targeted civilians leaving a concert in Manchester. The incident was initially reported to have killed 22 and injured 59. However, a later update put the number of injured at over 200.

After dropping from the five worst impacted in April, Afghanistan, saw at least 731 civilian deaths and injuries from explosive violence last month. This is the highest monthly casualty count that AOAV has recorded in Afghanistan since the Explosive Violence Monitor began in October 2010. The majority of the casualties in Afghanistan last month were caused by one attack. On May 31st, a huge bomb attack in Kabul’s diplomatic quarter saw 80 killed and 350 injured – a week later the death toll had been raised to 150.

In Syria, 93% of the deaths and injuries recorded from explosive violence were those of civilians, accounting for 822 casualties. However, the amount of civilian deaths and injuries is likely to be higher, as only 12 of the 113 incidents recorded civilian injuries, often despite high civilian death tolls. In Syria, airstrikes were responsible for 59% of civilian casualties, with US-coalition airstrikes causing at least 236 civilian deaths and injuries.

Whilst air-launched explosives may have caused the majority of civilian casualties in Syria, across the globe it was IEDs that caused the most civilian deaths and injuries – responsible for 57% of the total number of civilian casualties recorded last month. Air-launched explosives caused 22%, whilst ground-launched caused 18%. (The remaining 3% were caused by weapons such as mines or attacks using multiple weapon types.) Suicide attacks alone accounted for 43% of all civilian casualties.

When explosive violence was perpetrated in populated areas in May, 93% of the casualties were civilians.

AOAV strongly condemns the use of violence against civilians and the use of explosive weapons in populated areas. All actors should stop using explosive weapons with wide-area affects where there is likely to be a high concentration of civilians. Further, given the increasing prevalence of IED use, particularly suicide attacks, greater efforts should be made by the international community to combat the civilian harm caused by such weapons.

To see the key findings from AOAV’s annual Explosive Violence Monitor report, ‘Explosive Truths’, please see here.

Two million Australian dollars to support crucial reproductive health care and address violence against women among internally displaced people and returning migrants

Kabul 20 June 2017 - The Government of Australia has stepped up its long-running support for the crucial work the United Nations Population Fund, UNFPA, does in Afghanistan with a pledge of two million Australian dollars for emergency reproductive health care and supplies along with services to tackle violence against women among internally displaced people and returning migrants.

The funds, facilitated by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and to be dispersed through UNFPA over 12 months, will ensure reproductive health supplies, well-trained medical staff, counsellors and community mobilisers are on hand to provide quality care and support at facilities, including; the centre near the Torkham border crossing – a key crossing point on the Kabul-Peshawar-Islamabad route.

In recent months, the numbers of Afghan civilians returning to their homeland after many years as refugees in neighbouring Pakistan have significantly increased, putting a severe strain on Afghan authorities and relief organisations to cope with the influx.

“Sexual and reproductive health challenges are the leading cause of death and disability among women and girls and these challenges are exacerbated in humanitarian situations” said Richard Feakes, the Australian Ambassador to Afghanistan. “The Australian Aid program is committed to protecting the most vulnerable, including women and children.  Australia is proud to partner with UNFPA to help provide critical life-saving assistance in sexual and reproductive health and safety from gender based violence.”

In support of Afghanistan’s Ministry of Public Health, the funds will strengthen training for health providers in emergency obstetric and newborn care, and in implementing international standards in preventing and responding to gender-based violence in emergencies.

Emergency reproductive health kits with equipment and supplies that help ensure safer pregnancy and childbirth will be procured and placed at health facilities serving crisis-affected populations, and around 2,200 of UNFPA’s signature Dignity Kits, that contain crucial health, hygiene and safety products for women and girls in emergencies, will be distributed.

“These funds will help us save the lives of women and girls, and particularly pregnant women and newborns,” said Dr. Bannet Ndyanabangi, UNFPA’s Representative in Afghanistan.

“This will also help keep displaced women and girls safe, and help them maintain dignity in trying times. We’re truly grateful to the government and people of Australia for their generous commitment to women and girls in Afghanistan.”

According to the United Nations 2017 humanitarian needs study, an estimated 9.3 million people in Afghanistan need humanitarian assistance, with 372,000 women who are pregnant at the time of such need. These include returnees, internally displaced people and those living in remote areas. UNFPA studies indicate that violence against women often increases in emergencies globally, and in Afghanistan the country’s latest demographic and health survey (2015) indicates that over half of all Afghan women between the ages of 15 and 49 have reported experiencing physical violence at some point in their lives. In providing these humanitarian emergency services, UNFPA will complement the work being done by other agencies and providers, including under the International Organization of Migration (IOM) transit centre at Torkham. “Ultimately all of these joint humanitarian efforts conducted in partnership with government and civil society stakeholders, and with the key support of donors such as the Australian Government, seek to fulfil the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda,” said Dr. Ndyanabangi. “By focusing on the needs of the most vulnerable, we seek to ensure that – as the Sustainable Development Goals pledge – no one is left behind.” 

Additional Resources:

Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade: Humanitarian preparedness and response: http://bit.ly/2sqij7J

UNFPA responding to emergencies across Asia and the Pacific (2016): http://bit.ly/2t87Omm

UNFPA Minimum Initial Service Package for Reproductive Health Needs in Emergencies: http://bit.ly/2sgiEud

For more information, please contact:

Ahmadullah Amarkhil, UNFPA Communication Officer, e-mail: amarkhil@unfpa.org

Feature

Philippines

Affected areas Mindanao island (Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Misamis Oriental provinces)

Cause of displacement Disaster, Conflict

Figures As many as 182,000 new disaster displacements between 5 and 26 May; At least 100,000 new conflict displacements between 23 and 31 May

Context

As many as 182,000 people were displaced between 5 and 26 May in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), following flooding in the municipalities of Datu Salibo, Shariff Saidona Mustapha and Sultan Matura in Maguindanao province on 5 May. The displaced people sought refuge with relatives and friends (DROMIC, 26 May 2017).

More than 100,000 people were displaced between 23 and 31 May due to violent clashes between government armed forces and Maute insurgents in Marawi city in Lanao del Sur province, ARMM (DROMIC, 31 May 2017). Almost 50 per cent of the total population of Marawi was displaced (ECHO, 29 May 2017; Al Jazeera, 31 May 2017). As many as 14,000 residents moved to 24 evacuation centres set up in fisheries, schools and gymnasiums in Lanao del Sur and Lanao del Norte provinces; others sought refuge with relatives or friends, some leaving the province for Lanao del Norte and Misamis Oriental (DROMIC, 31 May 2017).

Confrontations in Marawi city involved government troops firing against Maute fighters who had seized large parts of the city, torched government buildings and a church, and flew black flags indicating their allegiance with Islamic State in Iraq and Levant (ISIL). In response, President Duterte declared martial law across Mindanao island, home to 20 million people, which will allow government forces to carry out searches and arrests and detain suspects without warrants (The Sydney Morning Herald, 25 May 2017; Al Jazeera, 24 May 2017)

20 June 2017 | UNESCO Office in Afghanistan—UNESCO has initiated cultural projects for IDP (Internally Displaced Person) and returnee settlements in Herat, Afghanistan. This initiative contributes to the social integration of the Afghan IDPs and returnees by building their social cohesion through common cultural linkages and the promotion of human rights. Pilot activities with participatory theatre for IDPs and returnees and their host communities have started in the Maslakh (Behzad) and Police Station settlements.

As a country with security challenges and a fragile economy, Afghanistan faces the additional challenge to absorb the influx of returnees and IDPs. The majority of the returnees and those IDPs who have been internally displaced, often find it difficult to integrate socially and culturally. Lack of means to communicate and interact with host communities lessen their capacity to adapt to their new and unfamiliar surroundings.

Out of the four dimensions used by UNHCR to assess integration—legal, political, economic and social—the promotion of social integration among returnees and IDPs has been a challenge to tackle. To overcome this long-accumulated handicap, and to assist host communities in embracing returnees and IDPs, UNESCO has initiated a project called, “The Right to Culture for Returnees and IDPs,” within the framework of its National Programme for Culture and Creative Economy (NPCE). The project focuses on the social and cultural integration of returnees and IDPs, and will foster the common identity of Afghans, through cultural expression and information exchange.

With the financial support of the Korean Government, the pilot activities of participatory theater for Herat IDPs and returnees has been started by training youth to re-tell their or their family’s stories. A theater coach and artists from the host community selected young IDPs from different ethnic and provincial backgrounds to work together on the subject of “life.” The theatre piece will be played for audiences in the settlements and in the host community as well. It is envisioned that this process will help bridge the IDPs and host community – with both focusing on the common heritage and rich culture of Afghans.

Additionally, as a part of this social cohesion project, small grants will be given to Afghan artists and cultural associations in the host regions to support joint cultural initiatives for local communities, IDPs and returnees. UNESCO has mapped artists and art associations in Herat and Nangarhar provinces, and plans to do the same for other provinces receiving returnees and IDPs. The artists will be supported and monitored by UNESCO to develop and bring cultural events and activities to both the displaced and the host communities. Although the projects are small in nature, the various activities are specifically targeted to promote social integration and social cohesion through the promotion of pride in being Afghan and in the commonality of Afghan history and culture.

UNESCO will be advocating for unity and harmony through the diversity of cultural expressions through this project. The activities that are planned will foster exchange and understanding amongst returnees, IDPs and host communities, while giving voice to the returnees and IDPs which, in itself, is an essential index for social integration. The pilot activities for Nangarhar province will start in July.

The High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Federica Mogherini, has appointed Mr Roland Kobia as the Special Envoy of the European Union to Afghanistan.

The High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Federica Mogherini, has today announced the appointment of Mr Roland Kobia as the Special Envoy of the European Union to Afghanistan. The Special Envoy's main task will be to advance the European Union's contribution to delivering lasting peace and prosperity in Afghanistan and in the region.

Mr Roland Kobia, a senior EEAS official and currently Head of the European Union Delegation to Myanmar, will ensure the European Union’s continued engagement in international and regional processes aiming at peace in Afghanistan by coordinating and consulting with all regional, international and non-governmental actors. He will act as the European Union’s representative in relevant fora and processes. He will also ensure regular reporting to the Member States of the European Union.

"Roland Kobia has a long-standing experience of peace and reconciliation processes in Asia and Africa. With his appointment, the European Union confirms its commitment to cooperate with our Afghan friends to bring peace to the country once and for all, after a long conflict which has cost so many lives, as well as to support the stability and the development of the country, the rule of law, and human and women's rights", Ms Mogherini said. "I would also like to thank the current EU Special Representative, Franz-Michael Mellbin, for his outstanding contribution and tireless work in support of stability, peace and reform efforts in Afghanistan over the past four years", she added.

The new Special Envoy will work in close cooperation with the recently nominated Head of the European Union Delegation in Afghanistan, Mr Pierre Mayaudon. Mr Kobia will take up his new role on 1 September 2017.

Important lessons on stopping the poliovirus in the most challenging locations are moving the polio eradication programme closer to the finishing line.

In recent years, the global drive to eradicate polio has seen the virus cornered in fewer places than ever before. Yet polio’s final strongholds are some of the most complicated places in the world to deliver vaccination campaigns. Insecurity and conflict are some of the challenges to delivering vaccines, as well as populations on the move, testing terrain and weather, and weak health systems.

In 2013, polio outbreaks in Central Africa, the Horn of Africa and the Middle East paralysed hundreds of children. The Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) developed strategies to deliver vaccines and stop the virus, even when access seemed impossible. All three of these outbreaks were put to an end just a year later, by not letting the complexity of the situation undermine the quality of vaccination campaigns.

The valuable lessons learned by the GPEI in tackling these outbreaks are now being used to end polio in the final polio endemic countries – Afghanistan, Nigeria and Pakistan – as well as to stop a newly-detected circulating vaccine-derived polio outbreak in Syria.

Challenges to immunization in emergencies

Disruptions to routine immunization systems and mass displacement caused by conflict can rapidly reduce population immunity, making individuals much more vulnerable to polio outbreaks. Polio eradication relies on being able to repeatedly access over 95% of children with vaccines. Yet emergency settings can interrupt systems that gather data about a population, functioning health facilities, health care personnel, vaccine supplies, cold chains to keep vaccines safe, power supply, financial resources, population demand for vaccines, and disease surveillance. When these factors are at play, the GPEI calls on past experience and adopts new approaches to reach every last child.

Lessons learned in conflict zones

Community acceptance and trust

When there are barriers to access, the first step is to have community trust and acceptance of vaccination. Every community and context is different and calls for a targeted approach to communicate exactly why immunization campaigns need to take place. The polio eradication programme identifies and trains vaccinators from local communities, engages religious figures to support the campaign and gets local leaders on board to advocate for, plan and implement vaccination efforts. The polio programme has seen time and time again that when securing access is a challenge, the answer often lies in the very communities we are trying to reach.

In Pakistan, a number of Religious Support Persons have been recruited based on the guidance of the Islamic Advisory Group for polio eradication, to address concerns of local communities about polio vaccinations in some challenging areas of the country. This has resulted in enhanced community acceptance of immunization, with refusal rates of less than 1.5%, as well as broader child welfare interventions.

Opportunistic vaccination campaigns

When different forces make populations periodically inaccessible, vaccination schedules can be interrupted and leave pockets of people unprotected against polio. In these situations, health authorities try to reach children in whatever ways are possible. Transit points can be set up around insecure areas, to vaccinate children as they enter or leave; vaccinators work with local leaders to track and reach populations on the move; communities within the inaccessible areas can store and deliver vaccines themselves; and brief periods of calm can be used to bring vaccines and other essential health services into villages through a health camp.

In Pakistan, over 350 transit points have been set up in recent years along borders and near areas with access challenges. This is one of the innovative approaches that have reduced the percentage of children missed on vaccination campaigns from 25% in 2014 to 5% in 2017.

Negotiated access

In the most challenging situations, when all other approaches are not able to overcome the severity of vaccination challenges, the programme has negotiated access by engaging non-state actors, governments, religious figures and local leaders. Reiterating the humanitarian principle of “neutrality,” the GPEI works with all parties to a conflict to highlight the importance of vaccination campaigns, and secure agreements to access targeted communities for specific periods of time.

In the past, negotiating access to conflict zones was comparatively simple to today. In the 1980s, days of tranquillity were first used in the Americas, through negotiation with two groups – often the government and the opposition group. In many areas where polio persists, there are many different actors and groups engaged in conflict, so negotiation is more complex. It includes identifying who is appropriate to negotiate with in any given district or area, and, importantly, finding appropriate negotiators. Often, third party partners such as the International Committee for the Red Cross are engaged to negotiate operations of vaccination campaigns in security-compromised areas, and in areas where vaccination bans have been imposed by local authorities.

Conflict and insecurity continue to pose significant challenges to eradication. Our best chance of ending polio for good in conflict zones lies in learning from these lessons and adhering to the principles of neutrality in health.

Opening fire on a tent full of demonstrators, the Afghan security forces have demonstrated a chilling disregard for human life. The protestors, who were fired upon on the night of 19 June 2017, had been peacefully protesting against the deterioration of security in the country and the relentless loss of civilian lives since the worst attack on civilians in 15 years struck the capital Kabul on 31 May, killing at least 150 people and wounding hundreds.

The attack on the protestors happened just as they had finished breaking their fast and eating evening meals with relatives of people killed in the 31 May bombing. The protestors, known as the Movement for Uprising Change, have been keeping vigil ever since.

The security forces actions, including the use of firearms, amount to the excessive use of force. This is the second time in a month that the Afghan security forces have flagrantly disregarded their obligations under international law, including their responsibility to respect and protect the right to life. On 2 June, the security forces opened fire on a group of protestors, killing at least four of them and wounding several more.

A spokesperson for the protest group said that two people were killed and four people were injured when police fired upon the demonstrators who resisted attempts to forcibly evict them from the tent. The police took another 11 people into custody, but no details have emerged about their whereabouts or any charges that may have been brought against them.

Killing citizens instead of protecting them

Amnesty International spoke to five people who witnessed the 19 June firing incident. One of them said: “It was around 11pm and we were all sitting and talking with some family members of the victims of the 31 May bombing. I was there because I lost my friend during the demonstration on 2 June. “Suddenly we heard tanks and police coming towards us. Police started to remove the tent and warned the people inside it not to resist and to let them remove it, but we resisted and didn’t allow police to remove the tent because the government had not

responded to our demands for justice and accountability. During the incident police from both the Ministry of Interior and Kabul Garrison opened fire on us and the shooting continued. One person called Ejaz-ul- Haq was killed and nearly a dozen more were injured. Some people fled but we resisted and defended the tent of justice seekers.”

Another eyewitness told Amnesty International: “When they attacked us and we saw our friends and companions were injured and lying in their own blood we tried to take them to the hospital but the police didn’t allow us to do so, and as result one person died, probably of excessive bleeding.” A wife of one of the protestors said that her husband had been taken into custody, leaving her and her children to anxiously await news of his fate. At 5am, he called his wife to tell her that he was in police custody. The phone call was suddenly terminated. Since then, there has been no news of his whereabouts.

The brazen disregard for human life shown by the attack on the protest campa has left many in fear of the security forces.

“If the Afghan government is killing its own citizens instead of protecting them,” as one eyewitness told Amnesty International, “then I don’t know where we should go to seek protection.” Among the protestors still languishing in police custody are Asar Hakimi, a well-known and highly regarded advocate for justice and accountability for the victims of the attacks of 31 May and 2 June.

A violation of the right to freedom of peaceful assembly

By cracking down on the protestors, the Afghan authorities have also violated their obligation under international human rights law to respect, protect and fulfil the right to peaceful assembly. This right includes facilitating assemblies in law and practice. It applies to all types of peaceful assemblies – including meetings, strikes, processions, rallies, and sit-ins.

The only restrictions that are legitimate are those that are demonstrably necessary for the protection of a clear public interest or for the protection of the rights and freedoms of others.

Any decision by the authorities to disperse a peaceful assembly should be taken when the authorities are left with no other means to protect a legitimate interest that outweighs the right of people to assemble. Even then, the police have an obligation as far as possible to avoid the use of force. Firearms must never be used by police as a tool for the dispersal of public assemblies: they may only be used if there is no other means of defence against an imminent threat of death or serious injury. In such circumstances police must minimize damage and injury and respect and preserve human life, and ensure that assistance and medical aid are rendered at the earliest possible moment to anyone injured or affected

Any assembly during which police have resorted to the use of force resulting in injury or loss of life must be subjected to a thorough investigation with a view to establishing responsibilities and accountability of the officers involved; this includes superior officers who knew or should have known that officials under their command were resorting to the unlawful use of force and firearms, and who did not take all measures in their power to prevent or ensure punishment for it. Governments must ensure that arbitrary or abusive use of force and firearms by police is punished as a criminal offence under the law.

Calls on the Afghan government

The Afghan government should do more to protect the lives of civilians and must respect and protect the lives of peaceful demonstrators. They should show no tolerance of excessive use of force by police and should ensure that there are thorough, effective and impartial investigations into the use of force by police on 2 June and 19 June, and that those responsible for excessive use of force are held accountable, including by means of prosecution in fair trials without recourse to the death penalty. They should ensure that the victims receive effective reparation, including adequate compensation, and that such incidents do not occur in the future.

UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA)

[as delivered] New York, 21 June 2017

Good morning, Mr. President, Esteemed Members of the Security Council.

The months since my last briefing have been unusually tense in Afghanistan. The deteriorating security situation has brought underlying political tensions to the surface. At the same time, the willingness of the Government to take steps towards peace was demonstrated by their successful holding earlier this month of a Kabul meeting on regional peace and security, as well as the continuous implementation of the political agreement with former insurgent group Hezbi-i Islami. But without enhanced efforts by the National Unity Government to increase political inclusiveness, strengthen accountability and improve the Government’s credibility, particularly in the security sector, we are likely to face more crises in an increasingly fragile environment. The events of the early morning of 20 June, when the Government’s attempt to remove the final protest resulted in violence is a reminder of the need for caution, calm and unity.

Mr. President,
The most recent security and political crisis was sparked by a terrorist bombing in Kabul’s centre on 31 May. This was followed by large street demonstrations protesting growing insecurity which turned violent, and then a suicide attack at a subsequent funeral of one of those killed in the demonstrations. Chief Executive Abdullah, Foreign Minister Rabbani and other senior political officials were near the blasts at the funeral but were thankfully unhurt.

The political fault-lines that emerged are increasingly along an ethnic basis, which is particularly worrying at a time when the Islamic State is attempting to provoke sectarian strife in the country through attacks against Shia Muslims.

During the anti-government demonstrations on 2 June, we at UNAMA conducted extensive outreach to leaders on all sides, particularly leaders of political movements which were considering joining the protests. We urged restraint, warned of the negative consequences for everyone of loss of control, and requested them to give time to allow their grievances to be addressed without violence. Coupled with the intensive efforts by the government and members of the diplomatic community, the immediate risk of escalation was defused. We are grateful for the subsequent expressions from the government and political leaders outside the government that UNAMA’s efforts contributed to calming the situation. I remain concerned, however, that without changes in governance practices we are likely to face future crises that might be more difficult to contain.

What is the root of the problem? There have been indications since last summer that Afghanistan’s broad political consensus was fraying. In recent months, a growing number of political factions, some who were formerly part of the National Unity Government as well as a younger generation of political forces, have begun to criticise and demand reforms to the Government. They argue that it is not sufficiently consultative or inclusive. The Government,on the other hand, claims that opposition groups block important reforms and stoke tension by calling for the Government to be replaced. Each side accuses the other of acting against the national interest. It appears to me undeniable that these perceptions have contributed to tensions that characterize today’s political environment. The existence of opposition is natural in any political scene, but the amount of mistrust is growing and there is an increasing resort to uncompromising slogans and statements which can fuel further violent protest. Efforts at inclusiveness and building consensus for political stability are critical.

The 31 May suicide bomb exploded just outside the restricted diplomatic enclave in the middle of Kabul. It took more than 90 lives and injured close to 500 people—all Afghans.
While there were no serious international casualties, a number of diplomatic facilities, including several UN buildings, were badly damaged. Some embassies have had to evacuate staff while their facilities are repaired. Despite these realities, it is imperative that the attack not be allowed to undermine international support for Afghanistan including development and economic assistance. The international community must not be intimidated nor succumb to the terrorists.

Mr. President,
The Government’s ability to hold a high-level meeting of the Kabul process on regional peace and security in Kabul on 6 June, with the participation of 24 states or organizations, demonstrated its resilience and the determination of the international community to maintain its support for Afghanistan and the National Unity Government.

In his opening speech, President Ghani stated: “We are gathered in this conference because the world community signed a promise that terrorism would not be tolerated. And today we are demanding that the world makes good on this promise.” In this regard, I welcome the General Assembly’s endorsement of the Secretary-General’s proposal to create a new office on counter-terrorism headed by an Under-Secretary-General.

The Afghan vision for peace is premised on the fact that a stable Afghanistan would lead to a stable and more prosperous region. Achieving this vision will require the strong determination of all states concerned, particularly of the region and the neighbourhood. The Afghan Government has requested at the Kabul conference for the international community to address this issue in all its facets. The nexus of crime, corruption, and terrorism eventually undermines all states and the state system, which is why states must unite to combat it. The proof of our commitment will be a stable Afghanistan.
On the Afghan side, the recent series of security incidents has demonstrated the urgent need for reforms in the security sector. I welcome the Government’s commitment to transparent, merit-based appointments, and credible investigations of the events of 31 May, 2 and 3 June, 20 June, and other reforms in the ministries of the Interior and Defence.

Mr. President,
Afghanistan faces numerous internal challenges in addition to fighting an insurgency that seems to be gaining ground. These include deep rooted political tension, the difficulty of integrating socially and economically the thousands of Afghan refugees who return each day, an economy that is only very slowly recovering after the international drawdown in 2014, and pervasive corruption. The economy remains heavily dependent on development assistance. The private sector, as the biggest potential provider of employment, suffers from a lack of investor confidence and pervasive corruption. As a result, economic growth can neither match population growth nor generate enough employment for the many young Afghans entering the labour market every year. Corruption undermines the legitimacy of the state. It prevents a real economy from emerging. It contributes to insecurity. Corruption is at the heart of the problem of impunity, which itself is at the heart of the ongoing human rights challenges. Afghans alone are not to blame, but the consequences of corruption disproportionately affect Afghanistan.

In April, UNAMA issued its first comprehensive report on corruption in Afghanistan. I was gratified by the intensity of the public’s response to this report. Afghans understand the effects of corruption and impunity because they face them every day. Positive steps have been made to tackle this problem by the National Unity Government. Reforms that have begun to work in the Ministry of Defence are now being applied to the Ministry of Interior.

The Anti-Corruption Justice Centre is proving to be an effective instrument.

UNAMA’s Human Rights remains committed to provide credible data of the impact of the conflict of civilians, especially women and children. It continues to engage with all main parties to the conflict to support them in taking measures to limit harm against civilians.

UNAMA’s report on the treatment of conflict detainees for the period of 2015 and 2016 was published in April to coincide with the second periodic review of Afghanistan by the United Nations Committee against Torture. UNAMA welcomes the Government’s renewed commitment to ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and to take further steps to eliminate the torture and ill-treatment of detainees. These efforts must be accelerated to increase accountability and increase public trust in the Government.

Mr. President,
The attack of 31 May and the events that followed should serve as a clarifying moment. We are at a point where we need to take conscious decisions to reverse negative trends and seek stability or face far worse. The recent crisis has illustrated the dangers of pushing narrow interests, be they domestic or international, in Afghanistan’s fragile context. There are two specific issues in particular that we must focus on.

First, in the domestic sphere, preparation must be accelerated for the next round of elections, parliamentary and presidential. Decisions must be made regarding the use of technology, and the role and modalities of international electoral assistance. Work must start on voter registration. The electoral calendar must be made clear. In my discussions with Afghan political actors, especially outside of Kabul, it is clear that the lack of clarity on these issues is a major component of the growing political mistrust. We understand that the Independent Elections Commission will make an announcement as early as tomorrow regarding the date for parliamentary elections. I believe that this announcement will contribute to allaying the political tensions I have referred to in this briefing.

Second, as I have repeatedly stated in this forum and elsewhere, a genuine peace process with the Taliban is essential and urgent. In the 6 June Kabul meeting, the need for a modus vivendi between Afghanistan and its neighbours was stressed. At the same time, I encourage the people of Afghanistan to begin an internal dialogue on the meaning of peace and reconciliation. The Government and the Taliban need to engage directly with each other to define a political solution. In this regard, the appointment of the new Chair of the High Peace Council is a welcome development, but it is only a first step towards the Council’s revitalization and its new role in driving the peace process.

Mr. President,
UNAMA is doing all it can to help contain political tensions, using our long-standing relationships and our experience. I have been proud of the entire mission and Country Team for these efforts. I was honoured to welcome the Secretary-General to Afghanistan last week, where his visit clearly demonstrated his and this Organization’s commitment to Afghanistan, solidarity with its people, and perseverance in the pursuit of peace.

We look forward as well to the results of the strategic review, which you have requested. We are hopeful and confident that it will ensure that we have the tools to continue to work for peace in Afghanistan.

On the eve of the important Muslim holiday of Eid, I wish to again reiterate my call for unity and urge restraint so that families and communities can enjoy a peaceful end of Ramadan.
Thank you

SC/12882

SECURITY COUNCIL
7980TH MEETING (AM)

Warning that the situation in Afghanistan was unusually tense and that a recent tide of violent terrorist attacks had brought underlying political tensions to the surface, the United Nations top official in the country urged all parties to exercise calm and the Government to take steps to improve public trust in its security sector in particular.

“Without enhanced efforts by the National Unity Government to increase political inclusiveness, strengthen accountability and improve the Government’s credibility, particularly in the security sector, we are likely to face more crises in an increasingly fragile environment,” warned Tadamichi Yamamoto, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Afghanistan, in a briefing to the Security Council.

The most recent security and political crisis had been sparked by a terrorist bombing in Kabul’s centre on 31 May, which was followed by a large street demonstration protesting growing insecurity and had turned violent, he noted. Over the past year, there were signs that Afghanistan’s broad political consensus was fraying, as a growing number of political factions began criticizing the Government and demanding reforms, with each side accusing the other of acting against national interests.

Those events should serve as a “clarifying moment”, he said. “We are at a point where we need to take conscious decisions to reverse negative trends and seek stability or face far worse. The recent crisis has illustrated the dangers of pushing narrow interests, be they domestic or international, in Afghanistan’s fragile context,” he said.

For their part, delegates echoed those concerns, with the representative of Japan describing the devastating 31 May terrorist attack as a “tragic wake-up call” for Afghanistan and the international community to recognize the urgency of revitalizing the peace process. There was a growing tendency of treating violence in Afghanistan as routine, warned India’s representative, adding that the international community was failing to ask such critical questions as to where the anti-Government elements were getting their weapons, training and financing.

Nevertheless, the Government’s ability to hold a high-level meeting of the Kabul process on regional peace and security on 6 June was heralded by many delegates throughout the debate, with several saying that meeting demonstrated the Afghan Government’s resilience and the international community’s determination to maintain its support for the country and the National Unity Government.

Reversing the tide against terror was contingent on eliminating support centres beyond the country’s borders that produced, nurtured and empowered terrorists operating in Afghanistan, underscored that country’s representative. The number of cross-border violations, which had dramatically increased, was another external threat to Afghan sovereignty, he said.

Those violations ranged from the firing of artillery shells, air space violations, and construction of military posts and barriers to digging deep ditches; all of which exacerbated the current situation, he said. The country had been pursuing a three-pronged strategy, including strengthening global counter‑terrorism efforts with a focus on engaging Pakistan in genuine cooperation, strengthening security and defensive capabilities, and improving national unity.

Continued reliance on a military option, or enhancing troop numbers without an accompanying political strategy, would only lead to more violence and bloodshed, stressed Pakistan’s representative. Emphasizing that her country did not allow its territory to be used for terrorism against other countries, she pointed to an agreement reached between her country’s Prime Minister and Afghanistan’s President in Astana earlier this month as evidence of efforts to re‑energize counter-terrorism cooperation.

The entire international community must take decisive steps to eradicate the scourge of terrorism, said Omirtai Bitimov, Kazakhstan’s ambassador to Kabul, who added that the troubling appearance of certain radical terror groups in the north of Afghanistan represented a growing security threat for Central Asia. He recommended a review of existing international approaches to Afghanistan, including the Security Council’s own position, as well as stronger links with countries in the region.

“Our support for the Afghan National Unity Government is unrelenting,” emphasized the representative of Iran, welcoming an Afghan-owned, Afghan-led peace process. Underscoring their close neighbourly relations, he said Afghanistan’s security situation directly affected security at Iran’s borders, and strengthening regional cooperation remained a priority. Projects, such as the Trilateral Chahbahar agreement among Iran, India and Afghanistan, had the potential to transform the region and stabilize Afghanistan.

Describing as “alarming” attempts by several regional players to cooperate with certain factions of the Taliban — ostensibly with the goal of preventing Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL/Da’esh) from expanding its presence in Afghanistan — the representative of Ukraine stressed that no tactics based on the idea that “the enemy of my enemy is my friend” should be applied to contact with terrorists. He called on Afghan authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into recent terrorist attacks, expressing concern about the suffering of Afghan civilians and the country’s growing number of refugees and internally displaced persons.

It was essential that the Government mobilize its efforts and fully implement its commitments regarding the rights of women and children, emphasized the representative of France, who drew attention to the large number of refugees returning from Pakistan and Iran. That sentiment was echoed by the representative of the European Union, who said efforts must be bolstered to address migration, returnees and the increasing numbers of children and women among civilian casualties.

Also speaking today were the representatives of the United States, Sweden, Senegal, Russian Federation, United Kingdom, China, Ethiopia, Italy, Egypt, Uruguay, Bolivia, Turkey, Germany, Netherlands, Spain, Belgium, Australia and Canada.

The meeting began at 10:22 a.m. and concluded at 1:37 p.m.

Briefing

TADAMICHI YAMAMOTO, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Afghanistan, noted that, in the months since his last briefing in March 2016, the situation in the country had been unusually tense. Deteriorating security had brought underlying political tensions to the surface, although the National Unity Government had demonstrated a willingness to take steps towards peace. “Without enhanced efforts by the National Unity Government to increase political inclusiveness, strengthen accountability, and improve the Government’s credibility, particularly in the security sector, we are likely to face more crises in an increasingly fragile environment,” he warned, adding that recent events were a reminder of the need for caution, calm and unity.

The most recent security and political crisis had been sparked by a terrorist bombing in Kabul’s centre on 31 May, which was followed by a large street demonstration protesting growing insecurity, which had turned violent, he said. That was followed by a suicide attack at the funeral of a person killed in the demonstration. Political fault lines were increasingly along ethnic lines, which was particularly worrying at a time when Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL/Da’esh) was attempting to provoke sectarian strife in the country through attacks against Shia Muslims. During the 2 June anti-Government demonstrations, the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) had conducted extensive outreach to leaders on all sides, while urging restraint. “I remain concerned, however, that without changes in governance practices, we are likely to face future crises that might be more difficult to contain,” he stressed.

Since a year ago, there had been indications that Afghanistan’s broad political consensus was fraying and in recent months a growing number of political factions had begun to criticize the Government and demand reforms, he said. Each side accused the other of acting against national interests, he said, adding: “It appears to me undeniable that these perceptions have contributed to tensions that characterize today’s political environment”. Efforts at inclusiveness and building consensus for political stability were critical. The Government’s ability to hold a high-level meeting of the Kabul process on regional peace and security on 6 June demonstrated its resilience and the international community’s determination to maintain its support for Afghanistan and the National Unity Government. The Afghan vision for peace was premised on the fact that a stable Afghanistan would lead to a stable and more prosperous region. Achieving that vision would require the strong determination of all States concerned, particularly those in the region and neighbourhood.

Afghanistan faced numerous internal challenges beyond fighting an insurgency that seemed to be gaining ground, he said. They included deeply rooted political tensions, the difficulty of socially and economically integrating the thousands of Afghan refugees that returned each day, an economy that was only very slowly recovering after the international drawdown of 2014 and pervasive corruption. The international community was at a point where it needed to take conscious decisions to reverse negative trends and seek stability or face far worse.

The 31 May attack and the events that followed should serve as a “clarifying moment”, he said. “We are at a point where we need to take conscious decisions to reverse negative trends and seek stability or face far worse. The recent crisis has illustrated the dangers of pushing narrow interests, be they domestic or international, in Afghanistan’s fragile context,” he said. In the domestic sphere, preparations must be accelerated for the next round of elections, including decisions on the use of technology and the role and modalities of international electoral assistance. Work must start on voter registration and the electoral calendar must be made clear. Further, a genuine peace process with the Taliban was essential and urgent. The need for a modus vivendi between Afghanistan and its neighbours had been stressed, while, at the same time, he encouraged the Afghan people to begin an internal dialogue on the meaning of peace and reconciliation. The Government and the Taliban needed to directly engage with each other to define a political solution.

Statements

MAHMOUD SAIKAL (Afghanistan) noted that the meeting came at a time when his country was undergoing another test in overcoming adversity, remaining under almost constant attack. Given the efforts of the Afghan security forces, the Taliban’s recent offensive had come later than expected. Unable to confront the Afghan forces directly, the Taliban resorted to desperate urban terrorist attacks on soft targets and attempted to sow discord among the Afghan people. In recent months, the country had seen attacks of an unprecedented nature, and since the beginning of the year, major terrorist attacks had caused significant loss of life, including the deaths of more than 500 people and 1,100 wounded.

The sheer carnage of the 31 May truck bombing in the heart of Kabul was a crime against humanity which had spread horror instead of peace and piety during the holy month of Ramadan, sending the nation into deep mourning, he said. The attack triggered social frustration and a wave of angry protests seeking security reform, which unfortunately resulted in more deaths and injuries. The Government firmly believed in the constitutional right of people to protest and no element of Afghan security forces should ever inflict unnecessary harm upon civilians. Given the events, the commander of the Kabul garrison and the police chief had been suspended and the events were being investigated. The Government remained committed to reassuring its people that the security forces were there to protect all Afghans and were at their service.

Reversing the tide against terror was contingent on eliminating support centres beyond the country’s borders that produced, nurtured and empowered terrorists operating in Afghanistan, he said. The number of cross-border violations, which had dramatically increased, was another external threat to Afghan sovereignty. Those violations ranged from the firing of artillery shells, air space violations, and construction of military posts and barriers to digging deep ditches; all of which exacerbated the current situation. To address it, the country had been pursuing a three-pronged strategy, including strengthening global counter-terrorism efforts with a focus on engaging Pakistan in genuine cooperation, strengthening security and defensive capabilities, and improving national unity. Despite the enormous violence, the Government remained firmly committed to the goal of sustaining peace, and in that regard, the 6 June Kabul process conference marked the resumption of an important initiative for stability.

Notwithstanding the difficult situation in the country, the security forces stood vigilant and had robustly responded to protect people and infrastructure, despite various logistical constraints in terms of resources, heavy weaponry and air capability, he said. The Government was in the process of a national dialogue to strengthen consensus on relevant issues and address political grievances based on the belief that good governance could only flourish in an environment free of any particular ethnic or linguistic consideration. Nevertheless, the Security Council had yet to take concrete action against regional safe havens and logistical support to terrorists, or cross-border violations. Further, the Council had yet to act upon the strict enforcement and strengthening of the sanctions regime.

KORO BESSHO (Japan), noting that the recent brutal terrorist attacks crystalized his delegation’s concerns about Afghanistan’s deteriorating security situation, said the international community’s continued political and financial support to the country had unfortunately yielded few improvements. More fundamentally, the seeming erosion of unity in the National Unity Government was profoundly concerning, and flare-ups of political and ethnic tensions within the Government must be absolutely avoided. The Government must return to its 2014 commitments with attention to inclusivity and by announcing a timeline for the parliamentary and district council elections which should have been held in 2015. Describing the devastating 31 May terrorist attack as a “tragic wake-up call” for Afghanistan and the international community to recognize the urgency of revitalizing the peace process, he added that the implementation of Council resolution 2344 (2016) — which had mandated UNAMA to support the people and Government in achieving peace and stability — was essential, as was the strategic review authorized by that resolution.

OMIRTAI BITIMOV (Kazakhstan), his country’s ambassador to Kabul, said that, despite the Taliban’s refusal to participate in negotiations, efforts for a peaceful solution must continue. There was no other option. The entire international community must take decisive steps to eradicate the scourge of terrorism, he said, adding that the troubling appearance of certain radical terror groups in the north of Afghanistan represented a growing security threat for Central Asia. He recommended a review of existing international approaches to Afghanistan, including the Security Council’s own position, as well as stronger links with countries in the region. UNAMA’s role should be enhanced and efforts to facilitate Afghanistan’s integration with Central Asian neighbours increased.

MICHELE SISON (United States) said her country’s resolve to stand with the people and Government of Afghanistan would not waver. The United States was currently reviewing its engagement and security posture in Afghanistan, but, in the meantime, there was no question that it remained wholly engaged in supporting the Government diplomatically and militarily. Noting the 6 June inaugural meeting of the Kabul process, she said the United States commended the Government for its commitment to an inclusive Afghan-led peace process despite continuing attacks. Peace talks were essential, she said, emphasizing that a military solution would not bring about a durable peace. A path to peace was available and the Taliban must choose to take it. The United States called on Afghanistan’s neighbours to unconditionally cease support for extremist groups, she said, affirming its strong support for UNAMA and looking forward to the Secretary-General’s strategic review.

CARL SKAU (Sweden), urging the Afghan Government and people to put aside internal differences in favour of progress on the country’s reform and peace agendas, commended the Government on convening the first meeting of the Kabul process. Also echoing the Secretary-General’s calls to restart the dialogue with the Taliban towards a lasting political settlement, he went on to note that regional tensions continued to undermine Afghanistan’s long-term stability and economic growth, calling on all parties to act constructively and work together towards sustaining peace. Pointing out that an efficient, effective and appropriately configured United Nations presence in Afghanistan was vital, he welcomed the ongoing strategic review of UNAMA, and drew attention to a number of his delegation’s priorities going forward including: a comprehensive approach involving development, human rights, the rule of law and humanitarian assistance; the continuation of UNAMA’s field presence at the current levels; a stronger mandate for the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, including on regional issues; increased women’s participation in the country’s political, economic and social life; and enhanced focus on children and armed conflict.

GORGUI CISS (Senegal) recalled that, during the first half of 2017, the security situation had deteriorated in Afghanistan with an increase in deadly terrorist attacks that had covered the country in blood. The demonstrations after those attacks served to exacerbate both the political and ethnic tensions, yet he pointed out that the authorities of the country had undertaken a constructive dialogue in order to improve relations with the people. Peace talks were required between the Government and the Taliban in order to contain the high level of violence in Afghanistan. He welcomed the Government’s determination to make efforts to allow peace and stability to return to the country, while the efforts of international forces to support Afghanistan were a key determining factor to defeat terrorist groups, particularly ISIL and the Taliban. He commended efforts aimed at regional cooperation, in which some neighbouring countries had spared no efforts. UNAMA continued to support local peace initiatives in several provinces and had taken many actions to support the Afghan Government and people.

VLADIMIR SAFRONKOV (Russian Federation) said that Afghanistan would remain a friend of the Russian Federation, and in that context, the recent string of terrorist attacks weighed heavily on his country. His delegation was seriously troubled by the political situation in Afghanistan, which could not break its vicious cycle of violence. In fact, the situation seemed to be worsening. The issues facing the country were a major burden on the shoulders of the people of Afghanistan, including the country’s armed forces. National reconciliation was of critical importance, and in that regard, the Russian Federation supported the recent efforts undertaken by the Government, although he noted the declining effectiveness of many international mechanisms meant to support the reconciliation process in Afghanistan. The Moscow negotiations were an inclusive process and the most promising method for forging a direct and constructive dialogue on issues of national reconciliation. The main tasks over the last 15 years facing the international military presence in the country had gone unresolved, and in fact, had only gotten worse. Only collective, joint work would allow for the unravelling of the complex morass of problems facing Afghanistan. He expressed concern about the increasing capabilities of ISIL in Afghanistan, which must not be ignored or “glossed over”, as well as the spike in drug production there.

STEPHEN HICKEY (United Kingdom) said Afghanistan was facing “trying times” as the number and impact of terrorist attacks seemed to be on the rise. The message of the international community must be clear and unwavering: “Enough was enough. These attacks must come to an end.” The region must work together to create the conditions for a more stable future for Afghanistan. His delegation acknowledged the successes of the Government and believed Afghans must work together to protect those gains in the face of such monumental challenges. Afghanistan must be looking towards the future in hope, not in fear; and the people of the country needed to feel they had a stake in that future. The tragic events in Kabul should serve as a stark remind that now was the time for action and implementation of the structures and process that would bring progress on the daunting but essential issues facing the country. The Afghan people must feel that they had a role to play in the national consensus on peace and, in that regard, his country welcomed the participation of all segments of society, including women and girls.

LIU JIEYI (China) said the international community must step up efforts to promote peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan. It should adhere to a unified standard in combating terrorism, including cutting off the flow of weapons and funds. Emphasizing the need to promote national reconciliation, he said the international community should extend full support to an inclusive process led and owned by the Afghan people. At the end of the day, Afghan issues should be managed by Afghan people, with the international community respecting their right to independently choose their political system and development path. Targeted assistance should be provided to help the Government develop its capabilities, he said, underscoring also prospects for regional cooperation and the Belt and Road Initiative. Commending the work of UNAMA, he said China hoped that the ongoing strategic review would lead to the Mission focusing more on peace, reconciliation and development.

TEKEDA ALEMU (Ethiopia) said long-term security and stability could only be assured through an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned political process. He noted the lack of progress in talks between the Government and the Taliban, adding that their trajectory did not look promising. He welcomed the convening of the Kabul process despite a difficult security situation and emphasized the critical role of countries in the region in creating conditions for combatting terrorism and advancing peace efforts. He welcomed Government efforts to pursue reforms, fight corruption and ensure accountability, adding that it was critical for the Government to maintain a level of coherence. Ethiopia hoped that commitments made at the Brussels donor conference in October 2016 would be honoured.

INIGO LAMBERTINI (Italy) underscored the crucial importance of cooperation among regional stakeholders, noting that terrorism and violent extremism threatened them, as well. The need for a credible and broad-based reconciliation in Afghanistan underscored the fact that there was no military solution to the conflict, he said. Focusing on an inclusive consensus was key, he said, emphasizing the need to ensure women’s participation in the process. Continued violence by hostile insurgent groups was a reminder of the importance of strengthening Afghanistan’s security institutions. Given the enormous and complex challenges it faced, the future of Afghanistan could not be imagined without unity and cohesion within its Government and institutions, he said.

AMR ABDELLATIF ABOULATTA (Egypt) noted that the security situation across Afghanistan was deteriorating, particularly following the Taliban’s announcement of the launch of its seasonal offensive and the increase of terrorist attacks over the last year. Egypt had traditional and historical ties with Afghanistan, he recalled, in addition to a mutual interest in the political situation in the Central Asian region. His country supported all regional and international efforts towards economic and social development to achieve prosperity for all the people of Afghanistan and for the return of refugees and internally displaced persons.

ANNE GUEGUEN (France), associating herself with the statement to be delivered by the European Union, said the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan was a source of major concern for her country, particularly as it affected vulnerable groups, including women and children. She expressed concern about the humanitarian situation in Afghanistan, especially given the large number of refugees returning from Pakistan and Iran. The best response to terrorism was unity, coupled with the determination to strengthen Afghanistan’s democracy. It was essential that the Government mobilize its efforts and fully implement its commitments regarding the rights of women and children. The support of all of Afghanistan’s neighbours to peace was indispensable. Her delegation would await with great interest the conclusions of the strategic review of UNAMA, which was due in July.

OLEH HERASYMENKO (Ukraine), associating himself with the European Union, pointed to encouraging progress on Afghanistan’s political track including a number of high-level appointments, consistent efforts to counter corruption and the creation of an environment conducive for future elections. Yet, those and other recent achievements had been overshadowed by increasing political tensions ahead of the election season. “It is absolutely imperative to preserve what has been achieved with such an enormous effort and sacrifice,” he stressed. Describing as “alarming” attempts by several regional players to cooperate with certain factions of the Taliban — ostensibly with the goal of preventing ISIL from expanding its presence in Afghanistan — he stressed that no tactics based on the idea that “the enemy of my enemy is my friend” should be applied to contact with terrorists. Calling on Afghan authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into recent terrorist attacks, he expressed concern about the suffering of Afghan civilians and the country’s growing number of refugees and internally displaced persons.

CRISTINA CARRIÓN (Uruguay) said a lack of dialogue between the National Unity Government and the Taliban was disappointing and created great suffering for the population. Instability and insecurity left civilians vulnerable, with a high death toll, particularly among women and children. Uruguay was troubled by the grave human rights situation, as well as humanitarian problems caused by the swift increase in internally displaced persons and returning refugees. Economic and security challenges called for constant support from both countries in the region and the international community, including the United Nations and the Security Council.

SACHA SERGIO LLORENTTY SOLÍZ (Bolivia), Council President for June, spoke in his national capacity, emphasizing the need for an internationally coordinated response to terrorism, as well as efforts for the return of internally displaced persons and refugees in a sustainable fashion. He hailed the work of the United Nations Mine Action Centre and expressed gratitude for UNAMA’s efforts. He went on to call on the entire international community, including countries in the region, to contribute positively so that the people and Government of Afghanistan could achieve reconciliation.

MALEEHA LODHI (Pakistan), expressing hope that political differences within the Afghan Government would be reconciled, said the Taliban insurgency and a campaign of terrorism promoted by ISIL and associated groups posed a global threat. Peace could be restored only through a negotiated settlement between Kabul and the Tehrik-i-Taliban Afghanistan. Continued reliance on a military option, or enhancing troop numbers without an accompanying political strategy, would only lead to more violence and bloodshed. Pakistan did not allow its territory to be used for terrorism against other countries, she said, noting that its Prime Minister and Afghanistan’s President agreed in Astana earlier this month to re-energize counter-terrorism cooperation. Pakistan urged all parties, including the Tehrik-i-Taliban Afghanistan, to return to the path of negotiations. Others could help by promoting a negotiated settlement, but peace could only be negotiated when the Afghan parties desired it and eschewed a military solution.

FERIDUN SINIRLIOGLU (Turkey) said that continued support to Afghanistan during its transformation decade was essential. “It is imperative to live up to the commitments,” he said, underscoring his Government’s continued pledges and contributions. In addition to providing funds, Turkey was supporting the Afghan Government’s security and development efforts both bilaterally and on multilateral platforms. The National Unity Government had continued to require international support in upholding the rule of law and eliminating impunity. Both of those were imperative to the stability of the Central Asian nation. However, the case against First Vice-President Abdul Rashid Dostum might not be the most appropriate occasion to prove that point. The case should be handled in a way that would not further deteriorate the security situation especially in northern Afghanistan. He also commended the efforts of the Kabul process as an opportunity to display solidarity with Afghanistan during the current difficult time.

HARALD BRAUN (Germany), aligning himself with the European Union, condemned senseless killing, including the attack on the German Embassy in Kabul in May, and called on authorities to investigate and hold those responsible for their crimes. Germany remained strongly committed to working with Afghan partners to tackle those challenge and commended the National Unity Government’s peace negotiation efforts. A peace and reconciliation process remained the only way to achieve long-term stability. Given the fragile situation, more needed to be done to protect civilians. Encouraging electoral reform efforts, he said a clear and realistic timetable for elections was needed.

HEDDA SAMSON (Netherlands), associating herself with the European Union and expressing her delegation’s solidarity with the National Unity Government, said that, on top of the Netherlands’ €230 million commitment at the 2016 Brussels Donor Conference, it had also committed an additional €4.5 million last week to assist vulnerable groups in Afghanistan. Calling on all parties to cooperate in the framework of an Afghan-owned and Afghan-led peace and reconciliation process, she stressed that only by having all parts of society represented in the peace talks would sustainable peace be reached. Highlighting UNAMA’s important role, she voiced support for the Mission’s stronger role in the area of regional political cooperation and underscored that the international community itself must remain committed to the situation in Afghanistan.

JUAN MANUEL GONZÁLEZ DE LINARES PALOU (Spain), associating himself with the statement to be made by the European Union, expressed his country’s satisfaction with the Secretary-General’s recent visit to Kabul, which demonstrated firm support for Afghanistan by the international community and Member States. Listing the many challenges faced by Afghanistan, he said there had been progress in recent years, but much remained to be done and the reality was far from positive. Spain called on all political stakeholders to always put the progress and well-being of all Afghan citizens first.

SYED AKBARUDDIN (India) said the adversary committing terrorist attacks in Afghanistan — which was clearly not averse to flagrantly violating international humanitarian and human rights law — was also flush with resources, weapons and operational support, and had access to sanctuaries outside the sovereignty of Afghanistan. The country’s multiple crises had unfortunately made it attractive to criminal and terrorist groups. “You can’t change what you can’t see,” he said, referring to the international community’s collective inability and unwillingness to “see the problem for what it is”. For example, the Council still did not find it appropriate to meet more often on the situation in Afghanistan, beyond its routine quarterly debates, and at times it had even shied away from condemning some terrorist attacks in the country.

“We see a growing tendency of treating violence in Afghanistan as routine,” he warned, adding that the international community was failing to ask such critical questions as where the anti-Government elements were getting their weapons, training and financing. Recalling a number of India’s efforts to fight terrorism and support the people of Afghanistan — including an agreement between the two countries to open an air corridor and the ending of trade obstructions — he nevertheless said that more must be done to ensure that the resurgent forces of terrorism and extremism did not find sanctuaries or safe havens anywhere, at any level. Finally, he said, “we must not distinguish between good and bad terrorists or play one group against the other”. The Taliban, Haqqani Network, Al-Qaida, Da’esh, Lashkar-e-Toiba, Jaish-e-Mohammad and other similar groups were all terror organizations and must be treated as such, with no justification offered for their activities.

GHOLAMALI KHOSHROO (Iran) recalled the 6,252 security-related incidents that had taken place in Afghanistan between 1 March and 31 May, the highest total ever recorded for that period since 2001. More than a decade after its invasion, Afghanistan and the region were no safer. The Taliban and Da’esh continued their attacks against civilians, and the proliferation of those groups required concerted international action. “Our support for the Afghan National Unity Government is unrelenting,” he said, welcoming an Afghan-owned, Afghan-led peace process. Underscoring their close neighbourly relations, he said Afghanistan’s security situation directly affected security at Iran’s borders, and strengthening regional cooperation remained a priority. Projects, such as the Trilateral Chahbahar agreement among Iran, India and Afghanistan, had the potential to transform the region and stabilize Afghanistan. Any increase in narcotics production was a direct reflection of insecurity and poverty, and he called for stronger international cooperation to deter that menace, which he called a major social health challenge and a source of income for terrorist groups.

JOANNE ADAMSON (European Union) expressing support for the Government’s efforts, said the international community should continue to build on emerging consensus around regional and global support to the peace and reconciliation process, which should be owned and led by Afghanistan. The Kabul Process on Peace and Security Cooperation could give new impetus to efforts, leading to settlement of the conflict. Welcoming the Afghan Government’s efforts to engage with the Taliban and other groups, and to implement its commitments on anti-corruption, election preparation, revenue collection and budget execution, she expressed hope that Afghanistan would soon ratify the Cooperation Agreement on Partnership and Development.

Turning to other issues, she said human rights must be priority on the Government’s agenda and more must be done to tackle corruption. Urging the Afghan authorities to advance the electoral reform, she said the European Union supported the process, capacity-building and the institutional strengthening of electoral management bodies and UNAMA’s coordinating role. Joint State-building and development efforts must expand upon reinforced regional cooperation. Raising concerns, she said efforts must be bolstered to address migration, returnees and the increasing numbers of children and women among civilian casualties.

MARC PECSTEEN (Belgium), emphasizing the prevalence of anti-personnel mines in Afghanistan, said Belgium recently decided to support a new United Nations Mine Action Centre project that would strengthen the capacity of Afghanistan’s mine action authority. He expressed deep concern over the conflict’s impact on children and called on the Secretary-General to maintain UNAMA’s special child protection capability. He also underscored the importance of a national plan of action against violent extremism with a view to eradicating terrorism. Understanding the factors behind radicalization, recruitment and financing networks were key elements for effective action in that regard.

GILLIAN BIRD (Australia) urged the people of Afghanistan to maintain solidarity despite their frustration and suffering. Current events had underlined the critical need for the international community to stand with Afghanistan as it worked to end the violence. To that end, Australia recently announced an increase to its military commitment in Afghanistan to about 300 personnel, to support the development of the long-term capabilities of Afghanistan’s security forces. That important work was part of the broader commitment to Afghanistan’s governance and reform agenda. Securing a future for Afghanistan was not just about security. The revised penal code and anti-corruption initiatives were commendable achievements in governance and the rule of law. She also welcomed positive steps on human rights.

CATHERINE BOUCHER (Canada) said his country would continue to focus on women’s and girls’ rights in all of its programming in Afghanistan, in line with Canada’s recently announced Feminist International Assistance Policy. Such efforts included education, awareness-raising and capacity-building on women’s rights and gender-based violence, as well as efforts to facilitate the involvement of women at the centre of decision-making. Highlighting Afghanistan’s recent progress in those areas, he added that women’s participation in the peace and reconciliation process was essential. “I hope that events such as this, along with efforts to alleviate gender-based violence and provide more education to women and girls, will push Afghanistan closer to peace and stability,” he said.

KHULM DISTRICT, Balkh Province– It is a partly sunny winter’s day and villagers are busy attending to their farmlands or taking a mid-morning break. Abdul Ghaffar, 50, a farmer in Sahilozie village, sits sipping tea with his two young sons as they discuss the weather. Next week is predicted to be sunnier and they are on track to cultivating six hectares of their land this year.

There was a time when Abdul Ghaffar did not have sufficient water to cultivate the amount of land he wanted because of the unpaved village irrigation canal. This is no longer the case and he is a happier farmer for it. “We cultivated less land because of water seepage, which led to water shortage. I could cultivate only two or three hectares of my land every year in the past,” he says.

The irrigation canal that has benefited Abdul Ghaffar and so many other farmers like him is the Baghat Irrigation Canal. Located in Sahilozie village in Khulm district in Balkh Province, the canal was paved by the On-Farm Water Management Project (OFWMP) in 2014.

The reconstruction of Baghat canal has truly been a boon to the region. “The unlined canal was inefficient, it absorbed a lot of the water and it took almost three hours to bring water to our farms,” says Abdul Ghaffar. “Now water reaches our farms in half an hour and water wastage is not a problem anymore.”

“Most of canals we rehabilitate have 30 to 45 percent water wastage, especially in summer. Our work ensures that the water wastage is reduced to almost zero. This also enables the farmers to have enough water throughout the year” says Noor Ahmad, an engineer with OFWMP in Balkh Province.

Two kilometers of the 3.5-kilometer long Baghat Irrigation canal was lined under OFWMP. The lined section has increased the irrigated area by 20 per cent, irrigating 300 hectares instead of 240 hectares of farmland. The project built eight culverts to allow people and animals to cross the canal, improving access for more than 100 families of this village.

The project also established an Irrigation Association (IA) in the village. IA have a bank account Farmers and villagers gather together to share their knowledge about farming and solve water-related problems as a community. The association is also tasked with the responsibility to maintain the canal.

The increase in irrigation water and time saved on maintenance have meant that farmers are now able to expand the scope of their activities. “Every year, 30 to 40 villagers had to clean the Baghat canal twice and it took two months of our time,” states Abdul Hashim, 40, who owns and manages grape and pomegranate orchards. “Now that I have more time and enough water, I would like to plant new modified fruit trees. In the past, more than 150 fruit trees would die out and not bear fruit because of the water shortage.”

Enhance Efficient Water Use

With a $70 million grant from the Afghanistan Reconstruction Trust Fund (ARTF), OFWMP works to improve agricultural productivity in project areas by enhancing the efficiency of water use. It is implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock (MAIL). The project aims to support on-farm water management investments in five regions—Kabul, Baghlan, Herat, Nangarhar, and Balkh—covering a total of 19,000 hectares.

OFWMP has implemented 35 projects in western Afghanistan, especially in Herat Province, since it began operating in 2011. In the northern region that covers Balkh, Smangan, Faryab, Sar-e-Pul, and Jawozjan, OFWMP has worked on 50 irrigation canals to date—18 have been completed, 13 are ongoing and 19 projects are in the survey and design phase.

The scope of OFWMP includes the rehabilitation of irrigation systems, training on efficient water management, as well as leveling of farmlands. “The project laser-leveled one of the farms in our village and when people saw how it improved productivity, they were all eager to laser-level their lands,” says Abdul Mannan, 51, head of the Sahilozie village Community Development Council. The leveling process helps farmers irrigate their lands more efficiently as it assures a smooth water flow and absorption throughout the land. “If agricultural practices contribute 25 percent to a good produce, the laser land leveling and irrigation rehabilitation ensure an additional improvement of 25 percent,” he says.

The villagers in Sahilozie village are now armed with a better system and knowledge of irrigation. “Backed by improved canals and increased access to efficient water management, thousands of farmers are equipped to do better, earn more, and that is the true essence of development,” engineer Noor Ahmad says.

BAMYAN - Empowerment of Afghan women and their increased participation in the country’s economic and political development was at the centre of a lively UN-backed radio discussion in central Bamyan province.

Panellists gathered in Bamyan’s capital city for the recent event, part of a series of similar debates in the central highlands region backed by the Bamyan regional office of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA).

In opening remarks, Ms. Hawagul Rezai, an official from Bamyan’s Department of Women’s Affairs, noted that while 17 per cent of government employees in Bamyan are women, only a handful of them are in provincial managerial positions.

“These statistics are not acceptable,” she said, emphasizing that men in authority must empower women through appropriate policies.

Ms. Sakina Khawari, a religious scholar and also a panellist, explained during the discussion that Islamic teachings do not restrict women’s work outside the home. She also said that Islamic scholars are obliged to raise awareness about the need to eliminate harmful traditional practices.

Bamyan, famous for its archaeological monuments, has a reputation for its moderate view of women’s social participation. But unchecked harmful practices and lack of awareness about women’s rights have hindered the province’s potential to be a standout champion for women’s empowerment.

“Harmful traditional behaviour toward women must be changed to allow active participation of women in all sectors of society,” said Sughra Attayee, a women’s rights activist. “Doing so will result in progress in Afghanistan.”

Ms. Attayee advised that Bamyan women should build their knowledge and confidence toward active participation in public life, and said that men should trust them and encourage them, creating a positive environment for women’s active contribution.

This discussion was recorded for later broadcast through Radio Bamyan to an audience estimated at 50,000 people in and around the province’s capital.

Earlier this year, on 8 March, the UN marked International Women’s Day under the theme of ‘Women in the Changing World of Work,’ and made a call for women’s participation in all professions, highlighting their essential contributions in all spheres of work.

Afghanistan has made progress toward equal workplace participation, with the government developing measures to advance women’s participation. The Afghan government has pledged to increase the presence of women in government institutions to 30 per cent by the year 2020. Currently, however, women’s participation countrywide is far below this target.

On Women’s Day, the UN welcomed the government’s launch of the economic empowerment program for women as a key step forward to opening more doors for women’s participation at all levels, and encouraged the government to continue to prioritize investment in education, healthcare and business financing for Afghan women.

UNAMA is mandated to support the Afghan Government and the people of Afghanistan as a political mission that provides 'good offices' among other key services. 'Good offices' are diplomatic steps that the UN takes publicly and in private, drawing on its independence, impartiality and integrity, to prevent national and international disputes from arising, escalating or spreading.

UNAMA also promotes coherent development support by the international community; assists the process of peace and reconciliation; monitors and promotes human rights and the protection of civilians in armed conflict; promotes good governance; and encourages regional cooperation.

ISLAMABAD — A massive suicide car bomb blast in Afghanistan’s southern province of Helmand has killed at least 29 people and wounded more than 60 others.

Witnesses said soldiers and government employees had gathered outside the New Kabul Bank in the provincial capital of Lashkargah to collect their salaries when the bomber struck them.

A provincial government spokesman, Omar Zwak, told VOA some of those wounded “are in critical condition.” He added that civilian and military personnel were among the victims.

The deadly bombing came ahead of Sunday’s Eid festival in Afghanistan, which marks the end of the holy Islamic fasting month of Ramadan.

There were no immediate claims of responsibility.

Brig. General Roger Turner, commander of the U.S.-led Task Force Southwest, condemned the attack. "This cowardly attack targeted innocent people as they lined up to get their salaries in preparation for the Eid al-Fitr celebrations," Turner said. "Once again, the enemy has shown complete disregard for innocent civilians with an indiscriminate attack, causing death and suffering."

Helmand is the largest Afghan province where most of the territory is controlled or influenced by the Taliban.

KABUL - The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) welcomes today’s announcement by the Independent Election Commission that parliamentary and district council elections will take place on 7 July 2018.

“The people of Afghanistan have made clear their desire for credible, inclusive elections,” said Tadamichi Yamamoto, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Afghanistan. “We welcome the IEC’s commitment to a realistic date for holding parliamentary and district council elections, and to an improved and transparent electoral process.”

Under Resolution 2344 (2017), the Security Council requested UNAMA to support Afghan authorities in the organization of elections, and to strengthen the integrity, sustainability and inclusiveness of the electoral process. Supporting strong and independent electoral management bodies will be a key feature of these efforts in the lead up to elections.

The Mission remains committed to working with Afghan institutions as they implement reforms to enhance transparency and build trust in Afghanistan’s democratic processes. UNAMA encourages the Commission, Afghanistan’s political leaders and civil society to unite their efforts in preparing credible parliamentary and district council elections in 2018.

• In Syria, 15 new cases of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) were reported in the past week, bringing the total number of cVDPV2 cases in the country to 17. Sixteen of the 17 cases are from Mayadeen district, Deir-Al-Zour governorate, and one case is from Raqua district, Raqua governorate. All cases had onset of paralysis between 3 March and 23 May.

• The 14th report of the Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) has been published, following the group’s meeting in May.

• Summary of newly-reported viruses this week: Syria – 15 new circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) were isolated from acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) cases, and four new cVDPV2 isolated from healthy community contacts. Pakistan – one new wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) isolated from an environmental sample. See country-specific sections below for more details.

Today's announcement in Kabul by the Independent Electoral Commission of the date for Parliamentary elections in Afghanistan opens the way for an overdue step forward for democracy in the country.

The broad consultations with Afghan political stakeholders underline the Government's commitment to ensure a transparent electoral process. We expect the Independent Electoral Commission, political stakeholders and civil society to continue working closely together towards inclusive, transparent and credible elections, and to further democratic developments.

Key decisions on electoral reform will now have to be taken by the Afghan authorities in a timely manner. Broad-based political support for and clear communication on these reforms will help to restore public confidence in the elections and electoral bodies.

The European Union is committed to supporting the Afghan electoral process and the right of Afghan citizens to exercise their civic and democratic rights, and intends to adopt a €3.5 million project to strengthen Afghanistan's electoral institutions, funded under the Instrument contributing to Stability and Peace. This project will help to enhance the integrity of the electoral process, and will complement existing and upcoming European Union electoral assistance in Afghanistan.

The European Union is committed to a peaceful, stable and democratic Afghanistan, to the benefit of all Afghans, of the region and beyond.

MANSEHRA: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government with the financial assistance of Ministry of States and Frontier Regions (Safron) would relocate three Afghan refugee camps, coming in the way of Hazara motorway, in Mansehra.

The motorway is being built under China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.

Officials said that provincial government had taken the issue of the camps with Safron on which the latter decided that Kahaki, Sheikhabad and Ichrian Afghan refugee camps would be relocated to somewhere else in the district.

Currently at total of 3,889 Afghan families, making a total population of 22,748 people, are living in the three camps in district.

Sources said that relocation process of the camps would be started by July 20 and the entire cost incurring on it would be borne by Safron that would acquire land and build makeshift infrastructure for the refugees.

Work on Hassanabdal-Thankot motorway is in progress and these camps are coming either directly in its way or at a little distance from it. A graveyard near Sheikhabad camp has recently been relocated to another place.

“I have yet to receive any official intimation about relocating of these three Afghan refugee camps,” said Naeem Shahzad Khan, the district administrator for Afghan refugees settled in Mansehra.

The district administration has already imposed Section 144 of CrPC to ban sale and purchase of land alongside CPAC in Mansehra.