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Afghanistan

Women bear brunt of violent extremism that is devastating communities

JALALABAD - Women are inordinately affected by the violent extremism that has devastated many eastern Afghan communities, the deputy UN envoy told participants at a UN-backed ‘Global Open Days’ event in the capital of Nangarhar province.

Around 40 people -- including the Provincial Governor of Laghman, Abdul Jabar Naeemi and Deputy Governor of Nangarhar, Muhamad Hanif Gardiwal, along with women’s rights activists, and civil society representatives from the eastern provinces of Kunar, Laghman, Nuristan and Nangarhar, attended.

“The protection of women in conflict, the prevention of violence against women, the participation of women in conflict resolution and their role in preventing violent extremism are essential to sustainable peace,” said Pernille Kardel the UN Secretary-General’s Deputy Special Representative for Afghanistan.

“I hope that in time our collective efforts and determination to move forward on preventing violent extremism will lead to results that will have a real and profound impact on women and men of this region,” said Ms. Kardel.

A five-member panel -- drawing on perspectives related to human rights, youth, local government and civil society -- presented the concept of violent extremism in its different forms and contexts, putting it into the context of UN Security Council resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security.

The Global Open Days events are designed to raise awareness about the role of women in the prevention and resolution of conflict, and to stress the importance of women’s participation in maintaining and promoting peace. Open Days were launched in 2010 on the 10th anniversary of resolution 1325.

UNAMA is mandated to support the Afghan Government and the people of Afghanistan as a political mission that provides good offices; promotes coherent development support by the international community; supports the process of peace and reconciliation; monitors and promotes human rights and the protection of civilians in armed conflict; promotes good governance; and encourages regional cooperation.