The G7+ special representatives for Afghanistan underlined the importance of an inclusive Afghan process, saying that “political pluralism and inclusive governance are required for Afghanistan to truly succeed.” They stressed the need for the Taliban to demonstrate more willingness to engage constructively and in good faith with the international community.
In a statement following their Sept. 29-30 meeting in London, representatives from the United States, United Kingdom, European Union and more than a dozen other countries reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the Afghan people “amidst ongoing humanitarian, economic, and political challenges.”
The envoys expressed “deep concern” over the Taliban’s continued denial of basic human rights and fundamental freedoms, particularly for women and girls. They cited restrictions on education, employment, healthcare and public life, as well as the recent order barring female Afghan staff from entering U.N. compounds.
They also noted the persistent terrorist threat and cross-border migration challenges emanating from Afghanistan, and discussed what more could be done with regional actors to counter terrorism.
The statement highlighted Afghanistan’s worsening humanitarian crisis, including September’s devastating earthquake, the impact of mass deportations from neighboring countries, and the urgent need to pre-position resources ahead of winter. It also noted the role of international financial institutions, such as the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank, in sustaining basic services.
The officials welcomed updates on the UN-led “Comprehensive Approach” and voiced hope that the Secretary-General and the incoming Special Representative for Afghanistan would prioritize advancing a unified UN strategy.
The meeting included representatives from Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Norway, Switzerland, Türkiye and the European Union, along with the United States and United Kingdom. Georgette Gagnon, the U.N.’s acting envoy for Afghanistan, also briefed the participants.
The G7+ Special Representatives for Afghanistan is a diplomatic format bringing together the G7 nations — the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan — along with the European Union and partner countries including Australia, Denmark, Norway, Switzerland, Türkiye and South Korea.
Envoys have held regular meetings since then, issuing joint statements in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. Their previous declarations consistently pressed the Taliban to reverse bans on women’s and girls’ education, allow women to work, respect human rights, and permit humanitarian access. They have also raised concerns about terrorism threats and Afghanistan’s worsening humanitarian crisis.
These countries play a central role in shaping the international response to Afghanistan. They provide the bulk of humanitarian funding, influence international financial institutions such as the World Bank and Asian Development Bank, and can impose or lift sanctions. They also coordinate with regional partners on counterterrorism and migration.
By acting together, the G7+ envoys seek to use diplomatic pressure, humanitarian assistance and financial leverage to push the Taliban toward inclusive governance while ensuring aid continues to reach Afghanistan’s most vulnerable people.
