This week marks a difficult milestone in our collective effort to serve the people of Afghanistan: one year since the de facto authorities implemented the ban on Afghan female colleagues entering UN premises across the country.

For the past year, our female colleagues have been separated from their workplaces. Despite all the obstacles, they have continued their work remotely with a profound sense of purpose and commitment. From managing digital innovation in engineering to supporting a complex humanitarian response. They have continued to make vital contributions.

Their commitment is clear. Their status is however unacceptable.

We continue to call on the de facto authorities in Afghanistan to allow our female colleagues to return to their workplaces. Women and girls in Afghanistan must be allowed to return to school, places of work, and help shape the country's future. 

To my female colleagues in Afghanistan, your courage and determination is an inspiration to us all. 

We stand with you – now and always – in the pursuit of an inclusive and equitable future for Afghanistan.