The World Food Programme in Afghanistan reports severe cuts in aid, leaving many surviving on minimal diets of bread and tea. The Taliban’s takeover has led to economic collapse and dwindling international support, further exacerbating food insecurity. Many Afghans are now facing acute starvation as humanitarian efforts struggle against funding restrictions and geopolitical crises.
The World Food Programme (WFP) in Afghanistan reports that it can only assist half of the 15 million Afghans facing acute food shortages due to severe cuts in international aid and an anticipated halt in US funding. WFP Country Director Hsiao-Wei Lee indicated that many individuals are surviving on minimal diets of just “bread and tea” amid this humanitarian crisis.
Since the Taliban’s takeover in 2021, Afghanistan has been on the verge of an economic collapse as all foreign development aid was suspended, significantly disrupting the banking system. Humanitarian organizations have stepped in to address urgent needs, yet ongoing donor restrictions, particularly regarding the Taliban’s treatment of women, have led to further reductions in aid.
In recent statements, Lee mentioned that approximately six million Afghans might be consuming only one or two meals per day this winter due to funding cuts. She expressed that the situation is dire as many people have been erased from aid assistance programs.
The United Nations reported that Afghanistan’s humanitarian plan for 2024 remains only slightly over half funded. Concerns are growing that funding may dwindle even further as global pressures and crises divert attention and resources from Afghanistan’s pressing needs.
The recent suspension of US foreign assistance raises uncertainty about future humanitarian operations in Afghanistan, as the US has been the largest donor, accounting for over 40% of the aid. Lee emphasized that any further reduction in support for Afghanistan would be troubling given the high levels of need present in the country.
Lee urged decision-makers to consider the dire circumstances faced by the Afghan populace, particularly women and children, in any forthcoming funding decisions. Despite challenges wrought by the Taliban’s restrictions on women, WFP has managed to reach some beneficiaries in the country through adaptations and exemptions granted to certain humanitarian organizations.
Moreover, the International Criminal Court is pursuing arrest warrants for Taliban officials over the persecution of women and girls, underlining ongoing concerns about women’s rights under Taliban rule. Lee described the operational climate as a “roller coaster” over the last three years but affirmed WFP’s commitment to fulfilling aid obligations amidst adversity and funding shortages.
The humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan requires urgent attention, particularly as international aid efforts have been hampered by recent geopolitical events and Taliban policies. The country is struggling with severe food insecurity exacerbated by economic disruptions following the Taliban’s rise to power. The situation necessitates a strong response from global donors to address the urgent needs of millions of Afghans, particularly women and children.
The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, characterized by severe cuts in aid and rising food insecurity, demands immediate action from the international community. With millions facing daily struggles to secure basic nutrition, it is crucial to address the funding shortfalls and consider the implications of donor restrictions. The situation highlights the urgent need to protect the rights and welfare of vulnerable populations, particularly women and children, in Afghanistan.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
