Afghanistan among the world’s largest displacement crises
Afghanistan among the world s largest – In the face of escalating challenges, Afghanistan is navigating one of the most severe displacement crises globally, as highlighted by UN agencies in a recent report. The situation has been compounded by persistent poverty, prolonged drought conditions, and recent earthquakes, which have strained the nation’s resources and disrupted the lives of millions.
Multi-Faceted Challenges Threaten Stability
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) office in Afghanistan released a socioeconomic review underscoring the growing pressures on both livelihoods and public services. A fragile economy, combined with four decades of conflict, 2.7 million returnees, and intensified climate shocks, has created a perfect storm of hardship. The report emphasizes that the challenges faced by Afghans are not isolated but interconnected, demanding coordinated responses to ensure long-term resilience.
UNDP chief Alexander De Croo, during a joint visit with the High Commissioner for Refugees Barham Salih, noted the complexity of the crisis. “In Afghanistan, crises rarely happen one at a time,” he stated, reflecting on the intertwined nature of economic, environmental, and social issues. The visit aimed to engage with returnee communities, local partners, and government authorities to reinforce commitments to sustainable solutions.
Earthquakes and Poverty Intensify Suffering
Recent natural disasters have exacerbated the displacement crisis, with earthquakes leaving widespread destruction in their wake. Last year alone, tremors devastated homes and livelihoods, particularly in regions already struggling with poverty. For over 74% of Afghanistan’s population—approximately 29 million people—basic needs such as food, water, and shelter remain unmet, underscoring the urgent need for recovery initiatives.
De Croo emphasized that while emergency aid is crucial for survival, development efforts are essential for restoring dignity and stability. “Emergency aid saves lives,” he said, “but development gives people their lives back.” This dual approach is being prioritized by UNDP as it supports both displaced individuals and host communities in rebuilding their futures.
Resilience Projects in Action
During their tour of Jalalabad, the UN agency chiefs observed firsthand the resilience of communities affected by the earthquake. In this region, efforts are underway to reconstruct infrastructure and create employment opportunities, demonstrating a commitment to integrated recovery. The visit also included a stop in the Sutan Valley, an area described by De Croo as “a testament to the potential for recovery.”
The Sutan Valley, which suffered significant damage from the earthquake, is now showcasing the outcomes of collaborative efforts. Local initiatives such as flood protection and irrigation projects are not only mitigating disaster risks but also fostering economic opportunities. One notable project involved women crafting wire mesh and men producing bricks to construct barriers that safeguard farmland and reduce the impact of future disasters.
Initiatives for Durable Solutions
A UN-supported initiative launched last year is laying the groundwork for lasting recovery in north-eastern Afghanistan. This program focuses on empowering communities by addressing their immediate needs while building the conditions for long-term stability. It includes measures such as clearing mine-contaminated land, prioritizing infrastructure projects, and identifying permanent housing solutions for vulnerable populations.
Specific outcomes of these efforts include the clearance of 6,478 square metres of land contaminated by unexploded ordnance in 11 communities. Additionally, 28 small-scale infrastructure projects have been prioritized, ranging from protection walls to improved irrigation systems. These interventions are designed to enhance community resilience and provide sustainable access to essential services.
The program has also identified 425 households for permanent housing in areas with high concentrations of returnees, ensuring that both newcomers and existing residents have secure living conditions. By addressing these foundational needs, the initiative aims to create a ripple effect of stability and opportunity across 69 displacement-affected communities in three districts of Kunduz and Baghlan provinces.
UNHCR’s Role in Strengthening Asylum Systems
Meanwhile, the UN refugee agency, UNHCR, is adopting a comprehensive strategy to reduce risks for displaced populations and bolster asylum systems. This whole-of-route approach focuses on integrated solutions for mixed movement corridors, where refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) often share the same pathways. By addressing challenges along these routes, the agency seeks to streamline access to protection and improve the overall efficiency of resettlement programs.
The UNHCR’s strategy is particularly critical as over 570,000 Afghans are projected to require resettlement in 2026. To meet this demand, the agency is expanding opportunities through programs like education, labor mobility, and family reunification. These pathways not only facilitate safer migration but also support long-term integration and self-reliance for displaced individuals.
Collaborative Efforts for a Unified Response
The joint visit by De Croo and Salih highlighted the importance of collaboration between UN agencies and local stakeholders. Their engagement with returnee communities and authorities underscored a shared vision for resilience, emphasizing that recovery must be community-driven and inclusive. The combined expertise of these organizations is being leveraged to create scalable solutions that address both immediate crises and systemic vulnerabilities.
By integrating emergency response with development programming, the UN is aiming to transition from temporary relief to sustainable recovery. This approach ensures that resources are not only allocated efficiently but also utilized to build stronger, more adaptive communities. The emphasis on participatory methods reflects a recognition that local knowledge and involvement are vital to the success of any large-scale initiative.
As Afghanistan continues to grapple with displacement, the UN’s efforts are focused on creating a framework where people can rebuild their lives. Through targeted interventions and sustained collaboration, the agencies are working to transform the current crisis into a foundation for long-term stability and growth, ensuring that no one is left behind in the journey toward recovery.
