Statement by H.E. Sanita Pavļuta-Deslandes, Permanent Representative of Latvia to the UN, at the UNSC Meeting on the Adoption of the UNAMA mandate renewal resolution
New York, 15 June 2026
Thank you, Madam President,
We thank the penholder, China, for their leadership and efforts to reach a consensus on the UNAMA mandate and welcome its unanimous renewal for one year. Latvia voted in favour of the resolution.
The presence and work of UNAMA remains vital for the people of Afghanistan. Latvia appreciates that the resolution before us clearly reflects UNAMA's three core pillars - humanitarian coordination, human rights, and the political track.
We welcome the inclusion of the following tasks in particular.
First, we stress the importance of resolution 1325 and subsequent resolutions on “Women, Peace and Security” in Afghanistan, as sustainable peace is impossible when women are denied their rights. We expect that the WPS agenda will be fully integrated throughout the mandate in a cross-cutting manner.
Second, we welcome the provisions on monitoring and reporting on the human rights situation in Afghanistan within this mandate. We understand this to encompass violations, abuses and reprisals against women, children, journalists, human rights defenders, healthcare and humanitarian workers, as well as other specially protected groups under international human rights law.
Third, we are pleased that this mandate includes monitoring and reporting on the impacts of natural disasters, water scarcity, and broader environmental challenges. Afghanistan is among the countries most vulnerable to climate change. Its adverse effects are impacting the livelihoods of the Afghan people and to the overall security situation in the country.
We unequivocally condemn the recent arrests of dozens of women in Herat and the excessive use of force against peaceful protesters. We urge the Taliban to immediately comply with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Convention on Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.
As this Council has once again expressed in the resolution before us today: “the absence of human rights and fundamental freedoms, in particular for women and girls, makes peace, stability and prosperity in the country unattainable”.
Latvia reiterates its unwavering support for the people of Afghanistan and will continue to stand firmly for the rights of Afghan women and girls.
I thank you.