The United Nations has reportedly instructed its staff in Afghanistan to work from home for five days, according to sources cited by Afghanistan International.
A UN source told the outlet that the measure will be implemented from September 6 to 10 and is intended to mark the first anniversary of the Taliban’s reported ban on women working in UN offices in Afghanistan.
According to the source, the decision is also an expression of solidarity with Afghan women staff members who have been prevented from returning to their workplaces. The move aims to support them and highlight the UN’s continued efforts to facilitate their return to work.
The decision means UN personnel in Afghanistan will carry out their duties remotely during the five-day period rather than reporting to their usual workplaces.
Afghanistan International said it contacted the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) in writing for an explanation of the decision. However, the mission had not responded at the time the report was published.
The reported action comes amid continuing concerns over restrictions on women’s employment and participation in public life in Afghanistan. The Taliban has imposed a number of restrictions on women since returning to power in 2021, prompting criticism from the UN and international community.