UNSC set to decide on UNAMA mandate extension next week

KABUL (Pajhwok): The UN Security Council is scheduled to vote next Monday on a resolution regarding the extension of the mandate of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA).

According to reports, although China requested that the resolution extend UNAMA’s mandate for one year, the United States rejected the proposal and insisted that the mission be extended for only three months for now, allowing member states to review the effectiveness of UNAMA’s work.

The United Nations has said that, compared to other UN missions, UNAMA is relatively costly and that its effectiveness needs to be assessed.

However, reports indicate that most members of the Security Council, as well as the acting head of UNAMA, Georgette Gagnon, support a one-year extension of the mission.

They have expressed concern that a three-month extension could reduce cooperation among UNAMA staff.

These countries have also said that such a move could weaken cooperation from the Islamic Emirate.

The resolution also calls on the UN Secretary-General to appoint a new head of UNAMA.

The mandate of former UNAMA chief Roza Otunbayeva ended in September 2025, and her deputy, Georgette Gagnon, has since assumed the responsibilities in an acting capacity.

The resolution further states that the Islamic Emirate should lift restrictions imposed on Afghan women and girls, combat terrorism and strengthen the weapons management system.

sa