The U.N. Security Council extended its political mission in Afghanistan for six months in a unanimous vote Friday. 

In essence, the resolution, which was drafted by Norway and Estonia, gives members time to assess how the Taliban will rule. 

Over the coming months, the resolution will ensure that the U.N. mission can carry on its work in Afghanistan monitoring human rights, protecting children and civilians against abuses, and supporting “the full, equal and meaningful participation of women in all levels of decision-making.” 

The resolution “sends a unified message that we stand behind the U.N.’s efforts in Afghanistan going forward,” Norway and Estonia said in a statement to the Security Council. 

U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Linda Thomas-Greenfield called the U.N.’s work in Afghanistan important, adding that the U.N. should continue “to serve Afghans and advance their human rights and fundamental freedoms.”

When the Taliban swept into power after a chaotic U.S. withdrawal from the country last month, they promised to form a more inclusive government, but when they announced an interim government, women and minorities were not included. 

Some information for this report came from The Associated Press.
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