One year on: Afghanistan still in crisis

Afghanistan captured the world’s attention when the elected government collapsed a year ago and thousands of people fled to Kabul’s airport.

In the year since, conflict, human rights abuses, ongoing drought, economic crisis, food insecurity and natural disasters have continued to wrack the country.

“At this moment, millions of Afghans need the international community to help provide basics like food and shelter,” said Australia for UNHCR CEO Trudi Mitchell.

“My plea to Australians is not to forget those people who still need our help, including women and girls.”

As the attention of the world shifts elsewhere, UNHCR continues to focus on humanitarian needs and human rights in Afghanistan, including advocating for women and girls.

“Women and girls must be given the opportunity to participate in all aspects of public life in Afghanistan, including education and employment,” said Trudi Mitchell.

“Without that participation, there is little chance of achieving lasting stability and economic development in the country.”

UNHCR has constructed several resource centres for women in areas prioritised for the voluntary return of refugees and conflict displaced people. These facilities offer computer and coding classes, language training, day-care activities, psycho-social support programs, tailoring training, and space for women-run businesses.

Many people of Afghan origin here in Australia, New Zealand and across our region continue to endure great anxiety about their futures and those of family members and friends still in Afghanistan or dispersed across host countries in the Asia-Pacific and beyond,” said Adrian Edwards, UNHCR’s Regional Representative for Australia.

“Being apart from loved ones adds to the pain for many refugees. Our solidarity is with all who face this plight, and we must work to ensure that Afghanistan’s humanitarian needs are supported.”

In the last year, UNHCR has expanded its field presence in Afghanistan. More than 300 UNHCR staff are delivering assistance throughout the country to address humanitarian and emergency response needs.

In the past year, donations from Australians have been vital for supporting UNHCR’s work across Afghanistan.

With your support, UNHCR has:

• Assisted 1.1 million people in 2021, particularly with winter support like shelter materials, blankets and cooking fuel
• Provided cash to repair or rebuild homes and projects to create livelihoods for those who have returned home
• Supported 560,000 people this year alone with cash assistance for basic needs and shelter, as well as delivering blankets, household supplies, hygiene kits, solar panels and lanterns, gas cylinders for cooking, and other relief aid
• Provided infrastructure support, including building schools, community centres, water systems and health centres, benefitting 2.5 million Afghans this year

More humanitarian assistance is desperately needed to help Afghans survive the coming winter. Please donate now to help displaced Afghans facing crisis after crisis.

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