‘War-weary Afghan population clamouring for peace and they deserve it’ – UN envoy

17 September 2015 – The top United Nations official in Afghanistan told members of the Security Council today that the country’s path to stability and self-reliance cannot be taken for granted, and that support from the international community continues to be crucial.

“The current refugee exodus reflects the despondency of many Afghans,” said Nicholas Haysom, the Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Afghanistan. “A clear signal of continued international support will mitigate the uncertainty fuelling this exodus.”

Mr. Haysom, who heads the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), noted that shortly after his last briefing in June, many points of friction emerged within the National Unity Government, and between the Government and elements of the political elite, driven in part by deteriorating security and economic conditions.

“Although neither of these were of the Government's making, charges of inaction and miscalculation surfaced in the media,” he stated. “Since then, there have been a number of positive developments, including signs of progress in the functioning of the National Unity Government.”

At the same time, the UN envoy warned that conflict continues to take a horrid toll on Afghan civilians. In the first eight months of 2015, UNAMA documented the highest level of civilian casualties since it began records.

“Anti-Government elements continue to cause the majority of civilian deaths and injuries although casualties caused by Afghan security forces continue to rise. UNAMA is encouraged by recent statements made by President Ashraf Ghani to take official steps to reduce civilian casualties.” - Read More at UN

‘War-weary Afghan population clamouring for peace and they deserve it’ – UN envoy

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