UNHCR closes 8 assistance centers for Afghan returnees after Taliban halt female staffers from working
Anadolu Agency
Ref: SRC-002-AFG-001
Accessed: 3/24/2026
Summary
Reports on the closure of all eight UNHCR encashment centres in Afghanistan on 9 September 2025 due to Taliban restrictions preventing female UN staff from working. UNHCR Representative Arafat Jamal explains biometric processing is impossible without female staff. Approximately 7,000 daily arrivals affected, 80% eligible for cash assistance, 52% of returnees are women.
View Harvard reference
Anadolu Agency (2025). UNHCR closes 8 assistance centers for Afghan returnees after Taliban halt female staffers from working. Anadolu Agency, 12 September 2025. Available at: https://www.aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/unhcr-closes-8-assistance-centers-for-afghan-returnees-after-taliban-halt-female-staffers-from-working/3686071 (Accessed 24 Mar 2026).