KABUL: The International Labour Organization (ILO) has said that access to decent work is a fundamental right for everyone, marking the International Day of Social Justice on February 20. In a statement, the Afghanistan office of the UN agency said social justice goes beyond reducing inequalities and means building a more prosperous and inclusive world in which every individual, regardless of background can develop and realize their talents and abilities. The remarks come as many citizens in Afghanistan continue to face unequal employment opportunities and widespread unemployment. Over the past four years, social justice in the country has been curtailed in various ways, with women in particular deprived of access to basic rights. Women’s right to work has been restricted to an unprecedented degree, with many excluded from government institutions, international organizations, and broader economic structures. Observers say the situation underscores the gap between global calls for inclusive economic participation and the realities facing millions of Afghans, especially women.
