Millions of Afghans face hunger as aid cuts deepen humanitarian crisis

The Hindu
The Hindu
2w ago
More than 17 million Afghans are experiencing crisis-level hunger due to steep cuts in international aid combined with multiple shocks including droughts and earthquakes.
Millions of Afghans face hunger as aid cuts deepen humanitarian crisis
A What happened
International aid to Afghanistan has been sharply reduced, including cuts to U.S. support for food distribution. This leaves over 17 million people facing severe hunger amid a struggling economy, droughts, earthquakes, and returning refugees. The reduced aid hampers humanitarian efforts just as demand and needs are rising, increasing the risk of widespread food insecurity and suffering.
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Key insights

  • 1

    Aid Cuts Impact: Humanitarian organizations have had to cut jobs and reduce spending, limiting food assistance to around 1 million people in 2025 compared to 5.6 million the previous year.

  • 2

    Refugee Return Pressure: Over 7 million Afghan refugees have returned in four years, increasing housing and food demand and raising rents beyond many people's means.

Takeaways

Sustained or increased international aid is crucial to prevent worsening hunger and humanitarian conditions in Afghanistan during coming winters.

Topics

World & Politics International Affairs Human Rights Migration Development

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