5 things to know about aid workers in Afghanistan
By Abdullah Zahid
1. Aid workers are the backbone of humanitarian operations in Afghanistan. More than 35,000 dedicated professionals – most of whom work for local and international non-governmental organizations – provide life-saving support in some of the country’s most remote and challenging areas. They work in education, demining, food assistance, health care, protection, psychosocial support and community outreach. Their expertise and commitment ensure that affected communities’ needs are met through a comprehensive response.
2. They reach millions of people in need. In 2023, although the humanitarian response initially planned to assist 21.3 million people in need in Afghanistan, aid workers exceeded this goal and successfully provided assistance to 32.1 million people. They included 26.3 million people who received food and livelihoods assistance, 16.5 million who accessed health care, and 9.9 million who benefited from water, sanitation and hygiene services. Additionally, 5.7 million children and pregnant or lactating women received nutrition support, 3.5 million obtained protection services, 2 million children received education and 1 million received emergency shelter and non-food items. This year, aid workers aim to reach 17.3 million people, underscoring their commitment to ensuring communities have the essentials to survive.
3. They constantly navigate a difficult environment. Afghanistan has long been one of the most dangerous places for aid workers, often ranking among the top five most hazardous locations. Conflict and violence have significantly declined since August 2021, but new challenges have emerged. The de facto authorities’ increasingly restrictive measures targeting women and girls limit their access to education, public life, services and employment, including humanitarian work, and pose significant hurdles that aid workers must constantly navigate to continue their work.
4. Their commitment is unwavering. Despite the challenges, aid workers are committed to providing front-line support to vulnerable communities. Afghan women aid workers, such as Atun, Emra, Haya, Nazoana, Noor, Sahar, Shabana and Zuhra, continue to make a difference. Their inspiring stories are featured in this ongoing aid worker series, which highlights their resilience and dedication in the face of adversity.
5. They need increased financial support. Aid workers can achieve much more with adequate resources and an enabling environment. However, the 2024 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan is just 25 per cent funded, having received only US$769 million of the $3.06 billion appeal. Greater financial commitments are needed to ensure aid workers in Afghanistan can continue providing an essential lifeline to people in need.
