United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed deep concern over the continuing discriminatory policies imposed by the Taliban on women and girls.

He said the restrictions on the women's full participation in public life, education and many areas of work violate their fundamental rights.

The UN Secretary-General said these restrictions also remain a critical impediment to Afghanistan's economic development, stability and reintegration into the international community.

He said the discriminatory policies against women and girls affect every aspect of their lives.

The UN Secretary-General called on the Taliban authorities in Afghanistan to immediately lift the ban on Afghan women working for the United Nations.