Statement by Country Director for NRC in Afghanistan, Christopher Nyamandi on the outcome of the Intra-Afghan Peace Conference:
“In the past week we have witnessed a very worrying increase in large attacks close to schools. In the last ten days over a hundred schoolchildren have been injured in several attacks. At least one child was killed when bombs were detonated close to their classrooms in Kabul and Ghazni.
“We are pleased to see the commitment by those in Doha to respect schools as well as to reduce civilian casualties. However, these positive words must now be translated into concrete actions by all sides currently fighting in Afghanistan to protect civilians and children from harm.
“The promises made in Doha came after thousands of lives have been lost in attacks by both sides during the past two decades. School children are increasingly vulnerable in this surging conflict. We hope that the discussions in Doha will be the first step towards peace. However, there are still concerns that increased political uncertainty could plunge the country further into crisis.
“Any step on the road to peace should be viewed positively. However, we are still only at the very beginning of this road, and we cannot yet predict the final destination. It is imperative that international actors who have been facilitating and participating in many of these talks, do not see this as an opportunity for a hasty exit. Now more than ever the international community must remain committed to supporting Afghans – thousands of whom today, despite everything, will be forced from their homes due to the conflict.”
