EU envoy Frellesen visits Kabul and presses on women’s rights, security and Afghanistan-Pakistan dialogue

The European Union’s Special Envoy for Afghanistan, Thomas Frellesen, visited Kabul from 12 to 14 October, the EU Delegation to Afghanistan said in a statement published on 15 October. He met representatives of the Afghan de facto authorities, diplomats including regional partners, officials of the United Nations and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, and Afghan civil society, among them women’s organisations.

Women and girls at the centre

According to the statement, human rights were raised in every discussion. Frellesen repeated the EU’s strong concerns over restrictions on women and girls, which the statement describes as “a key impediment to the normalisation of relations”. He also heard from women’s groups about how those restrictions affect them.

Security, drugs and the Pakistan border

The envoy said the overall security situation had generally improved, but voiced concern about terrorist groups, including ISKP, and stressed that Afghan territory must not pose a threat to other countries. On narcotics, he acknowledged the efforts of the de facto authorities while expressing concern about a renewed rise in poppy cultivation, and called for sustainable alternative livelihoods, which the EU says it already supports.

On regional stability, the statement says Frellesen urged Afghanistan and Pakistan to resume dialogue, stressed de-escalation and the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, and welcomed mediation efforts by regional and international partners and by the OIC.

Doha process and aid

The EU reaffirmed its support for the UN-led Doha process, calling for a united international community and constructive participation by the de facto authorities. The statement says progress depends on Afghanistan meeting its international obligations and on inclusive governance.

The EU also described its assistance, which covers health, education, resilience and livelihoods, including for people returning from Iran and Pakistan. The statement says returns should be safe, dignified and orderly. The envoy called for climate-related projects to be prioritised and stressed the role of a resilient private sector and of cultural heritage. In Kabul he visited the Machine Khana industrial complex, restored with support from the Aga Khan Trust for Culture.

The statement closes by saying that the EU’s engagement in Afghanistan “remains principled, pragmatic and focused on the needs of the Afghan people”. It does not announce new funding or any change in the EU’s formal relations with the de facto authorities.