Iran and UNICEF Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Support Afghan Women and Children

Social Media

In a move to strengthen and expand support for Afghan children and women, the Bureau for Aliens and Foreign Immigrants Affairs of Iran and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) have signed a memorandum of cooperation.

According to Iranian media reports, this memorandum was signed on Tuesday (10 June) between Nader YarAhmadi, the head of the Bureau for Aliens and Foreign Immigrants Affairs of Iran, and Monika Oledzka-Nielsen, UNICEF's acting representative in Iran. The aim of this initiative is to improve the living conditions and provide better opportunities for vulnerable Afghan women and children.

Nader YarAhmadi, expressing concern over the difficult situation of Afghan refugees, especially children, stated that supporting this group requires special attention and practical measures. He emphasized, "I hope both sides will work with a special focus on addressing the issues related to children and women."

He added, "In my direct meetings with refugees, asylum seekers, and displaced persons, the condition of the children has greatly concerned me. We are trying to use our national capacities to manage this issue, although we may not be able to cover everyone."

YarAhmadi, referring to the large number of Afghan families, highlighted the need for special support for mothers and stated that they have endured many hardships in raising their children.

Meanwhile, the acting representative of UNICEF in Iran also thanked the Iranian government for its cooperation and described the signing of this memorandum as an effective step in strengthening humanitarian efforts and inclusive support programs for migrants.

This comes as in recent years, especially after the Taliban's return to power in Afghanistan, thousands of Afghan citizens have sought refuge in Iran due to security threats and difficult economic conditions. However, Afghan migrants in Iran have consistently complained of discriminatory treatment and harsh living conditions.