"Provision of Humanitarian Air Services to UN Agencies, NGOs and Counterparts In Afghanistan"

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Afghanistan faces enormous recovery needs after more than two decades of war, civil unrest and recurring natural disasters. Despite recent progress, millions of Afghans still live in severe poverty amid a crumbling infrastructure and a landscape riddled with mines.

An intensified conflict in 2011 caused further civilian casualties and displacement, delayed humanitarian action and disrupted essential services. The planned withdrawal of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) from Afghanistan over the next three years risks disrupting local economies, and adversely affecting humanitarian and development action. Insecurity thus remains a major concern in 2012. Conflict continues in the southern and eastern parts of the country. The Government and International Coalition Forces are also attempting to counter increasing activities of anti-government forces in western Afghanistan, prompting new population displacement.