KABUL (SW): The Ministry of Interior (MoI) has vowed to increase the number of women serving in uniform and also lift their skills and abilities to best serve the nation.
According to the MOI, Noorul Haq Ulomi, met a delegation of women in his office on Wednesday and shared views about the role of women and security.
Separately, civil society activists believe lack of respect and acknowledgement were among the main reason why not many women were joining the police force and those in service were sort of holding back their full potential.
This was expressed in a gathering titled “Support for Policewomen: Support for Peace” here on Wednesday to express support for women in uniform. It was organized by the Development and Support of Afghan women and children organization (DSAWC).
Zahra Sepehr, female activist told the gathering women’s role was critical in maintaining peace in a society. She expressed concerns about the lack of credit women often receive for their services.
It is believed only 2,834 women are currently serving in the armed forces, which makes up about only 2% percent of the entire police force in Afghanistan. The government was urged to lift this ratio and help enabling environment with the help of community leaders and elders.
Aidi Ahmad Hakimi, the Gender Affairs Director at the Ministry of Interior (MoI) said on the occasion that efforts were underway to increase the number of women serving the security sector.
ENDS
