Thank you, Madam President.
I would also like to thank Special Representative Otunbayeva, the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher and the Chair of the 1988 Committee for their presentations, and Ms Mahboob for her courageous words.
The adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights three-quarters of a century ago, that we have just commemorated this Tuesday, is a painful reminder that the situation in Afghanistan is a stark example of the gap that separates us from the realization of these universal rights. Last week, the Taliban effectively shut down the last access to higher education for women, denying them access to the medical profession. This exclusion of women from the health sector in contempt of their dignity and aspirations, will exacerbate the already critical shortage of essential services. The humanitarian crisis is worsening. Coupled with other restrictions, this action further exacerbates the world's worst women's rights crisis and deprives Afghanistan of economic, social and political prospects. When half the population is excluded from education, public and economic life, the consequences reverberate throughout the country. Poverty is exacerbated. Communities are destabilized. And confidence in governance and public institutions is undermined. We call on the Taliban to immediately reverse these decisions, which we strongly condemn.
Madam President,
This Council has recognized the independent assessment as a basis for moving forward, and its support for UNAMA and its mandate remains strong. But we must do more to ensure that the rights of all Afghan women and men are restored, and that Afghanistan can embark on a sustainable path to peace, stability and prosperity.
Reflecting on Switzerland's two years as a member of this Council, I would like to highlight the following key points:
First, the human rights of all Afghans must be respected. Afghanistan cannot achieve stability, prosperity, or peace as long as systemic violations persist. Women must be able to take their place at the negotiating table and participate in decision-making. To this end, a solid education is essential. My delegation is committed to ensuring that Afghan women are included in shaping the future of their nation. Last December, we organized a closed-door meeting in the Arria formula to facilitate dialogue between Afghan women and the members of this Council. In September this year, we amplified the voices of those women who have dedicated their lives to building peace within their communities, with our President and the United Nations Secretary-General. Their courage must continue to inspire and guide our actions, and we must not abandon their hopes and aspirations.
UNAMA's human rights component is essential to document violations, help ensure accountability and preserve dignity. Switzerland has contributed over two million dollars to support this crucial work, and we call on this Council to reaffirm its commitment to human rights when UNAMA's mandate is renewed in March. Without human rights, a peaceful, secure and prosperous Afghanistan will remain out of reach.
Second, investing in climate resilience today will save lives tomorrow. Afghanistan is one of the countries most affected by climate change, with droughts and other extreme weather events displacing entire communities, depleting already scarce resources and exacerbating regional tensions over access to water and natural resources. Last year's meeting of the Informal Expert Group on Climate, Peace and Security, co-chaired by Switzerland, highlighted the need for innovative solutions and greater resilience. We welcome the appointment of a climate advisor to UNAMA, which will help strengthen the mission's efforts in this area.
Third, humanitarian action must be protected. More than 23 million people in Afghanistan are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance. We cannot allow them to be deprived of the aid they need. Humanitarian access and the protection of humanitarian personnel must be guaranteed at all times, in accordance with international humanitarian law and Resolution 2730 of this Council. We echo the Secretary-General's call on the Taliban to guarantee unhindered access, refrain from arbitrary interference and ensure the safety of humanitarian personnel. For its part, Switzerland is aiming to open a humanitarian office in Kabul in the near future in order to be able to contribute to the humanitarian needs of the Afghan population in distress.
Madam President,
Responding to crises in Afghanistan requires a determined, coordinated and sustained commitment. UNAMA remains a pillar of international efforts, and its mandate is essential for the future of the country. As Switzerland's term on the Council draws to a close, we reaffirm our solidarity with the Afghan people and our unwavering commitment to defending their rights and freedoms. Switzerland will remain steadfast in its support for peace, stability and dignity for all Afghans.
I thank you.