As of the end of May 2020, more than 30,000 COVID-19 tests have been conducted throughout the country, resulting in 10,000 confirmed positive cases and more than 200 deaths (OCHA). The COVID-19 pandemic is exacerbating a situation which continues to see horrific violence against civilians in violation of international humanitarian law, including the recent attack on a hospital (HRW, MSF). Further, there is an increase in domestic violence (UNAMA, The Guardian) and other forms of gender-based violence (GBV), such as forced marriage (OCHA), as negative coping strategies (Madre, et. al.). The response to the pandemic must be inclusive, and both gender and disability-responsive (UN, Devex, HI, HRW, Women Enabled Intl.). Basic rights and freedoms are being eroded in the short-term, which, if continued, can rollback hard-won gains for women (Oxfam). Further, given that roughly 80% of adults in Afghanistan have some form of disability (Asia Foundation), and women face systematic challenges in accessing services (HRW), an intersectional and inclusive approach is necessary. In the forthcoming report on the implementation of the mandate for the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), the level of detail and analysis provided on WPS should be improved upon, in line with the mission’s mandate (S/RES/2489 (2019)). The Council should inquire about the mission’s progress in providing technical expertise and supporting the establishment of clear procedures to engage Afghan women and young women from diverse backgrounds in peace negotiations and conflict resolution efforts, including as negotiators, developed in consultation with women members of the High Peace Council and State Ministry of Peace (CEDAW/C/AFG/CO/1-2). There should be follow-up on the extent to which powerbrokers leading the peace process are taking concrete action to ensure women’s meaningful participation and are also ensuring the planning, process, and outcome(s) reflect Afghan women’s expertise and priorities. The Council should also request an update on UNAMA’s support to the Government and civil society organizations in providing support to communicate with the local leaders, communities, partners and media about the increased risk of violence against women and girls due to COVID-19 and its impact on Afghan Peace Process. It is crucial to note that the conflict has exacerbated the vulnerability to marginalization, poverty, discrimination, and violence, especially among local and rural women. The Council should seek an update on UNAMA’s support to the Government in providing basic gender-responsive services for survivors/victims of attacks, which are at the highest levels recorded since 2009 (UNAMA). There should also be information on measures taken to ensure the security and protection of women officials and leaders, women’s rights activists, women human rights defenders, and journalists (CEDAW/C/AFG/CO/1-2), as well as women healthcare providers. Finally, senior officials should provide detailed updates regarding UNAMA’s support to, and progress on, implementing its National Action Plan (NAP) on Resolution 1325 (2000), including in the development of accountability structures, and finalization of the financial mechanism to ensure implementation (S/RES/2242 (2015)).