Afghanistan

Afghanistan continues to grapple with the consequences of four decades of conflict, entrenched poverty, climate-induced crises, and barriers to women’s equality and participation in public life. 

The economic downturn following the political transition in August 2021 – which coincided with a suspension of large-scale bilateral development cooperation on which the country depended – has exacerbated underlying fragilities, including limited livelihood opportunities for both urban and rural populations alike. 

Despite the significant reduction in active hostilities, Afghanistan remains primarily a protection emergency characterized by high-levels of protracted displacement, mine and explosive ordnance contamination, restrictions to freedom of movement, increased risk of gender-based violence, child labour, early marriage and increased needs for mental health and psychosocial support.

Despite the withdrawal of international forces, Afghanistan is not immune to geo-political and regional dynamics with 1.9 million Afghans having returned to the country so far in 2023, including more than 471,000 from Pakistan since 15 September. 

Additionally, severe climate change effects have precipitated a widespread water crisis that leaves no corner of the country untouched, and has generated new food, health and nutrition needs. Lying on numerous fault lines, Afghanistan also remains vulnerable to earthquakes, having experienced nearly 400 in the past year including three 6.3 magnitude shocks in Herat Province in October, contributing to increased shelter needs. 

The exclusion of 1.4 million girls from secondary school, combined with low literacy rates overall, means that education needs persist and remain a critical priority.

Women-headed households are the most vulnerable population group in Afghanistan today, with a higher reliance on ‘emergency’ livelihood coping strategies, increased reports of early marriage of daughters, and higher rates of food insecurity and child labour when compared to male-headed households. 

Nearly half of all Afghans live in poverty, with rates particularly high among women. Despite low-level economic stabilisation in 2023, 65 per cent of families still experienced an economic shock. Fragile economic conditions are expected to continue to contribute to acute food insecurity in 2024, affecting 15.8 million people.

The 2024 humanitarian response in Afghanistan requires US$3.06 billion to provide assistance for 17.3 million people.

Key priorities include food aid, safe drinking water, healthcare, education, and addressing acute water, sanitation, and hygiene needs. The protection of vulnerable groups, especially women, children and those living with disabilities, remains paramount.