KABUL, 8 March, 2021 (TON): A leading role of the Afghan women in the country’s peace process is to enter a new phase in the coming weeks or months, the UN said on Monday.

Deborah Lyons, the Secretary-General's Special Representative for Afghanistan said, "The peace process has brought to the fore strong Afghan women leaders, who have negotiated on behalf of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and rallied support in their communities for a peaceful solution to the conflict."

"Empowering these women and expanding women's participation will be critical to ensure a just and sustainable peace that protects the rights of all Afghans."

Aleta Miller, UN Women Representative in Afghanistan said, "Women must be at the front and center of decision-making, to achieve a peace that lasts, for a bright future for all Afghans.”

Under the 1964 constitution, Afghan women gained equality but rights were taken away in the 1990s including under the Taliban regime. But 2001government of President Hamid Karzai, which was formed by the U.N., included women. Moreover, 27 percent of the 250 seats in the House of the People are reserved for women as per the 2004 Constitution.