Afghanistan Peace CampaignMedia outlets reported that she passed away due to a stroke.
Following the passing of Raffaella Iodice, the former chargé d’affaires of the European Union Delegation to Afghanistan, Josep Borrell Fontelles, the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, described her as an inspiring example of commitment to the rights and dignity of Afghan women.
Media outlets reported that she passed away due to a stroke.
Josep Borrell said about her: “Her tireless work in Afghanistan changed countless lives, giving voice to those unheard.”
Former Afghan President Hamid Karzai also expressed condolences on her passing, stating that she contributed significantly to the Afghan people during her mission.
“Indeed, this woman worked extensively, particularly in advocating for women’s rights. Moreover, she discussed removing some restrictions and was active in other areas, such as media and other initiatives that benefited the country,” said Zaherullah Zaheer, a political analyst.
“The European Union has always sent capable individuals to Afghanistan. She maintained the sensitivities between the Islamic Emirate and Europe, worked hard for women’s rights, and made great efforts regarding European aid to Afghanistan. Therefore, Raffaella Iodice’s activities over two years are commendable, and the Afghan people are grateful,” said Salim Paigir, another political analyst.
Meanwhile, the European Union Delegation in Kabul expressed sorrow over the passing of Raffaella Iodice, stating that she was “a true friend of Afghanistan, a champion of women & girls.”
During her mission, Raffaella Iodice traveled to various provinces in Afghanistan. In addition to meeting Afghan women and girls, she engaged in discussions with officials of the Islamic Emirate, calling for the removal of restrictions on women and girls in Afghanistan.
On May 1 of this year, Raffaella Iodice also visited TOLOnews and acknowledged the important role of media in the country. During her visit to TOLOnews, she said: “We have not forgotten you, and we appreciate your work. TOLOnews is the voice of today’s Afghanistan and its people. You are the future of a better Afghanistan. Thank you for staying here and fighting.”
The EU Delegation to Afghanistan announced on Sunday that Raffaella Iodice had died. She had assumed the position of chargé d’affaires of the European Union Delegation in Kabul in September 2022. Her mission as the EU diplomat in Afghanistan concluded at the end of August this year.
Following Raffaella Iodice, Veronika Bošković Pohar has begun her work as the new chargé d’affaires of the European Union Delegation in Afghanistan.