In a new UN Development Programme (UNDP) report, it has been revealed that 75% of Afghanistan’s population is struggling to meet their daily needs. Female-headed households, rural communities, and internally displaced persons (IDPs) are the most vulnerable groups. This dire situation comes as the country grapples with economic stagnation, political instability, and increasing reliance on international aid.
According to Kanni Wignaraja, the UN Assistant Secretary-General and head of UNDP’s Asia-Pacific region, the Afghan people are experiencing extreme vulnerability. This is due to an ongoing combination of economic crises, political uncertainty, and climate-induced disruptions. The Afghan economy is unable to recover momentum due to these overlapping challenges, further compounding existing vulnerabilities.
STAGNATION OF LOCAL PRODUCTION AND WEAK JOB CREATION
The report highlights the critical issue of Afghanistan’s dependency on imports and foreign aid. Local production remains stagnant and job market fails to recover. The economic crisis has intensified. Shrinking international assistance undermines humanitarian operations. It also affects the delivery of basic services to the population.
UNDP has emphasized the need for targeted interventions to address the situation. They noted that humanitarian assistance alone is insufficient to resolve Afghanistan’s underlying economic and social challenges. Stephane Rodriques, UNDP Resident Representative in Afghanistan, stated that long-term sustainable solutions are required. These solutions are necessary to ensure a resilient recovery for the country.
IMPACT OF GENDER RESTRICTIONS ON THE AFGHAN ECONOMY
One of the most alarming findings in the report is the gender gap that has continued to widen under Taliban rule. The ongoing restriction of women’s rights has worsened the socioeconomic crisis. Women and girls are being pushed further into poverty. They are also facing increased social exclusion. The UNDP notes that only 7% of Afghan women will be working outside the household in 2024. These gender-based restrictions on women’s participation in the workforce are set to cost the Afghan economy nearly $920 million between 2024 and 2026.
UNDP calls for Afghanistan to lift restrictions on women and girls. It also urges providing targeted support for women-led businesses. This could help mitigate some of the negative economic impacts.
INCREASE IN RETURNEES AND ADDITIONAL STRAIN ON AFGHANISTAN’S RESOURCES
Afghanistan is dealing with growing internal challenges. It is also facing a mass influx of returnees from neighboring countries. Particularly, Pakistan and Iran have increasingly hardened their stance on Afghan refugees. The UN estimates that between 600,000 and 1.5 million people are expected to return to Afghanistan in 2025, adding further strain to an already overburdened population.
Wignaraja highlights the immense strain this influx will place on Afghanistan’s already fragile economic situation. With reduced international support, Afghan communities will face additional pressures. The arrival of thousands of returnees will add to these challenges. It will become harder for them to meet their basic needs, resulting in greater vulnerability for the entire population.
A CALL FOR LONG-TERM SOLUTIONS
Afghanistan is facing a growing humanitarian crisis. The UNDP stresses that short-term humanitarian aid remains crucial. However, long-term strategies for economic recovery are also necessary. These strategies include gender equality and sustainable development. Afghanistan’s path to recovery involves lifting gender restrictions. It also includes supporting women’s participation in the workforce. Additionally, it requires providing targeted support for the country’s most vulnerable populations.
With the global community’s assistance and a focus on inclusive economic development, Afghanistan can begin to rebuild. However, it will require sustained commitment. Coordinated action is also necessary to address the underlying structural challenges that continue to hold the country back.
