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G7 nations call for inclusive governance and rights in Afghanistan
Special Representatives for Afghanistan and representatives from G7 nations, the European Union and six other countries convened in London on September 29–30 to assess the Afghanistan’s’s humanitarian, political, and security challenges.
The meeting brought together officials from Australia, Canada, Denmark, the European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Norway, Switzerland, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Georgette Gagnon, Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and acting head of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), also briefed participants.
In a statement issued by the UK, which currently chairs the group, members reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the Afghan people and emphasized that aid must reach the most vulnerable communities.
Participants expressed serious concern over the persistent terrorist threat and cross-border security risks emanating from Afghanistan. They underscored the importance of closer regional and international cooperation on counterterrorism.
The group condemned the IEA’s continued denial of fundamental freedoms, particularly for women and girls, citing restrictions on education, employment, healthcare, and public participation, as well as the recent ban on female Afghan staff entering UN compounds. They urged the IEA to respect their international obligations.
Delegates also raised alarm at the IEA’s shutdown of internet services, warning that the move will isolate Afghans from the outside world, disrupt humanitarian operations, and damage the economy.
On the humanitarian front, discussions covered the impact of September’s devastating earthquake, mass deportations of Afghans from neighboring countries, and the urgent need to pre-position resources before winter. Participants highlighted the critical role of international financial institutions, including the World Bank and Asian Development Bank, in sustaining essential services in Afghanistan.
The meeting also reviewed the UN’s “Comprehensive Approach” to Afghanistan. Participants stressed the need for stronger coordination within the UN system and expressed hope that the incoming Special Representative of the Secretary-General will advance a unified strategy.
Concluding the talks, the G7+ representatives underlined that Afghanistan’s long-term stability requires political pluralism and inclusive governance. They urged the IEA to engage constructively and in good faith with the international community.
The Islamic Emirate has previously said that it respects human rights in accordance with Sharia law, and the current government in Afghanistan is also inclusive.
A 6.1-magnitude earthquake struck Afghanistan on Saturday afternoon, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
The quake’s epicenter was reported in Jurm district of Badakhshan province, with a depth of 208.3 kilometers.
So far, there have been no immediate reports of casualties or damage following the tremor.
Shahabuddin Delawar, Head of the Commission for Contact with Afghan Personalities, says Afghanistan has achieved security, unified governance, brotherhood, and progress for the first time in 47 years under the administration of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA).
Speaking at a meeting in Kabul on Saturday, Delawar said Afghanistan had lacked a unified system over the past four decades, but added that with the return of the Islamic Emirate, the issue has now been resolved.
Referring to Ashura commemorations held on Friday, he said the occasion was observed peacefully across the country under full security.
Delawar also urged exiled Afghan politicians to return, saying the commission was established to serve Afghans and address the concerns of returning figures. He added that any legal disputes involving returnees would be handled exclusively through the commission.
He further said the Islamic Emirate has expanded treatment centers and intensified anti-narcotics efforts since regaining power, claiming this has led to a significant decline in drug addiction.
Addressing the issue of international legitimacy, Delawar said he understood why the United States has not recognized the Islamic Emirate, arguing that Washington suffered a defeat in Afghanistan that it cannot easily overlook.
“They have suffered a major defeat that they cannot forget; if they recognize us, they will face questions from their own people,” Delawar said.
The European Union says it is implementing hundreds of millions of euros in projects to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Afghanistan and help expand economic opportunities across the country.
Speaking to Ariana News, EU Chargé d’Affaires in Kabul, Veronika Boskovic Pohar, said the programs are aimed at creating jobs for skilled workers, women, youth, and returnees, while also strengthening the private sector. She added that alongside international support, Afghan authorities also have a role in facilitating economic growth.
According to Pohar, the EU is currently implementing projects worth €156 million focused on livelihoods, durable solutions, job creation, and women’s economic empowerment. She said an additional €40 million program specifically designed to support returnees will be launched in the near future.
She noted that the EU is gradually shifting its focus from emergency humanitarian aid toward long-term sustainable solutions, particularly for internally displaced people and returnees in Afghanistan.
Meanwhile, the United Nations, marking World Day of Small and Medium Enterprises, said SMEs account for more than 90 percent of businesses worldwide and play a critical role in employment and economic growth.
UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric stressed that stronger investment, innovation, and sustainable industrial development are essential to help businesses withstand economic challenges and build resilient economies.
Afghan private sector representatives and economic analysts say greater support for SMEs could help the country address economic challenges faster, increase employment, and promote sustainable long-term development.
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