In a statement marking International Women’s Day in Diplomacy, the United Nations said that Afghanistan is one of only seven countries that does not have a single woman in its cabinet.

International Women’s Day in Diplomacy is celebrated on June 24 every year at the United Nations headquarters in New York.

The United Nations said women have participated in diplomacy for centuries, but their contribution has often been overlooked.

The organization stated that only 26 countries in the world are led by women; and that women make up 23.3% of the total number of cabinet members worldwide. This is a slight increase on 2024.

However, Afghanistan is one of only seven countries in the world that does not have any women in its cabinet.

Amina Mohammad, Deputy Secretary General of the United Nations, says: “This day is not just an occasion, but emphasizes the importance of women’s participation in governments and peace negotiations at the international level. If we leave half of humanity behind, we cannot reach our common goals.

“Research shows that when women participate in peace processes, the likelihood of reaching a lasting agreement increases and the results are more durable and inclusive. We need to promote policies that encourage women’s participation in political decision-making processes,” she said.

At the same time the European Union’s charge d’affaires in Afghanistan says the resistance, courage and hope of Afghan women is extraordinary. Rafaela Iodis, in Kabul, says that women in Afghanistan’s diplomacy not only break barriers; they also build the future of this country.

Iodis said: “Since coming to Afghanistan, I have met the most resilient, courageous and hardworking women who are determined to shape the future of this country.”

However, the Islamic Emirate has always said that women’s rights have been secured more than ever before in accordance with Islamic Sharia.

But on the eve of the upcoming UN-led Doha meeting, which is scheduled to be held in less than five days, reactions to the absence of Afghan women at this meeting have increased.

In the latest case, the G7 asked in a letter to the United Nations that civil society and women should be part of the Doha talks.

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