Overview
- The UN and World Food Programme estimate about 46 million people live in Afghanistan and roughly 17.4 million are in acute hunger, with 47 percent of children undernourished in recent UN reporting.
- The WFP says it sought roughly $900 million for operations but received about $130 million so far this year and that resources are down roughly 85 percent compared with needs, forcing cuts to food distributions.
- Humanitarian groups report hundreds of health facilities have closed, removing basic medical care for about four million people and sharply reducing treatment for malnourished children.
- Taliban security forces have detained UN staff and, according to Human Rights Watch, abducted six employees of a women’s rights group, actions that aid agencies say are undermining their ability to operate safely.
- European practical engagement with the de facto authorities, including a deportation agreement with Germany, has prompted rights groups to demand an end to returns as donors weigh whether engagement will further weaken protection for women and vulnerable Afghans.