Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
March 9, 2026 Peace and security
Afghanistan is on the brink of a new wave of instability due to a combination of external conflicts, economic pressure, and the de facto government's policies that are alienating the country from the international community, Georgette Gagnon, Deputy Head of the UN Mission in Afghanistan, stated at a Security Council meeting on Monday.
Gagnon recalled the goal enshrined in Security Council Resolution 2721: "an Afghanistan at peace with itself and its neighbors, fully integrated into the international community." She noted that this prospect is becoming increasingly remote amid the escalating conflict between Afghanistan and Pakistan, which has resulted in "severe human and economic losses."
Closure of cross-border routes
The closure of the Pakistani border and instability on trade routes through Iran have already led to rising prices for basic goods in Afghanistan, increasing pressure on its already fragile economy. Gagnon emphasized that the key problem remains Afghanistan's continued isolation from the international community, which is blocking progress in security, economic development, human rights, and humanitarian aid. According to her, if the situation continues, the country could once again become a source of regional and global instability.
Individual achievements against the backdrop of a general crisis
In her speech, Georgette Gagnon noted a number of positive trends. Among them is the continued ban on opium poppy cultivation, which has led to a 20 percent reduction in the area under cultivation in 2025 compared to the previous year. Furthermore, since September 2023, Afghanistan has been able to accommodate 5.5 million returning refugees, "without signs of social collapse."
Read also:
INTERVIEW | How the UN is supporting Afghanistan amid regional escalation and a severe shortage of resources
However, Gagnon emphasized that these achievements do not offset the damage caused by other decisions by the de facto authorities, primarily the ban on education for girls beyond sixth grade and the restrictions placed on women's work in the humanitarian sector. She called this "extremely damaging" to the country's future and recalled that the ban on the recruitment of local female UN staff violates international norms and the Charter of the United Nations.
"Critical" humanitarian situation
The humanitarian situation in Afghanistan remains critical: 17.5 million people require assistance in 2026, but the current plan is only 10 percent funded. Gagnon warned that dwindling resources, climate shocks, and the mass return of refugees are increasing pressure on families and triggering a new wave of migration.
The Deputy Head of the UN Mission in Afghanistan also expressed concern that Afghanistan is not demonstrating a willingness to fulfill its counter-terrorism obligations, as neighboring countries express concern about extremist groups linked to the de facto authorities.
Incentives for reintegration
Gagnon called on the Security Council to remain united and actively support Afghanistan. She said UN member states can create incentives for the country's reintegration into the international community.
"The UN mission in Afghanistan remains fully committed to the common goal of creating conditions in which this country can live in peace with itself and its neighbors," she concluded.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.