UNITED NATIONS: The United Nations Security Council on Monday unanimously adopted a resolution extending the mandate of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) until June 17, 2027, while highlighting concerns over Afghanistan’s humanitarian crisis, terrorism threats, human rights situation and regional stability.

The resolution, drafted by China and adopted by all 15 Council members, reaffirms the UN’s central role in supporting peace and stability in Afghanistan and maintaining engagement with the country’s de facto authorities and other stakeholders.

Although Pakistan is not mentioned by name in the text, several provisions of the resolution carry direct implications for Islamabad, particularly on refugee returns, regional security, counterterrorism cooperation and economic connectivity.

The Security Council directed UNAMA to support efforts to create conditions conducive to the “voluntary, safe, dignified and sustainable return and reintegration of internally displaced persons and refugees,” an issue of particular relevance to Pakistan, which continues to host a large Afghan refugee population.

The resolution also mandates UNAMA to facilitate dialogue involving Afghan authorities, regional countries and the wider international community, potentially creating an additional multilateral framework for regional engagement on Afghanistan.

Published in Dawn, June 16th, 2026