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UN official says exclusion of Afghan women still a major concern
Stephanie Luz, head of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme in Afghanistan, says the continued exclusion of women and girls from education, employment, and public decision-making remains a serious concern in the country.
Speaking at the event “Women and Girls Leading Urban Recovery and Peacebuilding” during the World Urban Forum 13 in Baku, Luz stressed that understanding the needs of Afghan women and girls requires directly listening to their voices, particularly through the involvement of local women in community discussions and planning.
She said women often experience safety risks in urban areas differently from men, making their perspectives and local knowledge essential for effective urban planning. According to Luz, UN-Habitat is working with local communities to develop action plans aimed at improving safe housing, access to water, healthcare services, and overall living conditions.
Luz also emphasized that women’s economic empowerment plays a vital role in strengthening their position within both families and society.