UN Calls for Equal Rights and Inclusive Decision-Making in Afghanistan on World Social Justice Day

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) marked World Day of Social Justice on Friday by stating that social justice in the country means non-discriminatory access to employment and support for families through humanitarian assistance.

UNAMA emphasized in a Facebook post that sustainable peace requires the participation of women, youth, various ethnic groups and persons with disabilities in decision-making processes.

Afghan activists launched a campaign titled "National Campaign for Girls' Education" on the occasion, demanding the immediate reopening of schools for girls. They stated that no society can claim social justice without ensuring equal education rights.

In a statement, the activists said: "A government that deprives half of society of the right to education, choice and dignity cannot expect obedience or support from the people."

They urged the Taliban to abandon what they described as enmity toward justice, knowledge and national interests, and called on families and social institutions to join the campaign in support of women's and girls' education.

The UN designated February 20 as World Day of Social Justice in 1995 during a summit in Copenhagen to organize efforts for rights for all citizens and against discrimination and inequality.

Since the Taliban took power more than four years ago, they have issued dozens of decrees specifically targeting the rights of women and girls in education, work and public presence. Human rights experts and activists have described these policies as "gender apartheid" and called for their criminalization.

The international community has repeatedly urged the Taliban to form an inclusive government since their takeover, but the group has not responded to these requests.

Over the past four years of Taliban rule, many social groups, particularly women and ethnic and religious minorities, have faced injustice, according to activists.