Afghan humanitarian situation worsens under Taliban rule

Since the Taliban reclaimed control of Afghanistan in August 2021, the country’s humanitarian situation has sharply worsened. International agencies and United Nations reports indicate that millions of Afghans now live below the poverty line, with food insecurity affecting an estimated 22 million people and acute malnutrition rising among children under five. The collapse of formal banking services, coupled with sanctions and the suspension of foreign aid, has constrained economic activity and limited access to basic necessities such as medicine, clean water, and shelter.

Human‑rights organizations have documented systematic violations since the regime’s return, including restrictions on women’s education and employment, curtailments of freedom of expression, and punitive measures against perceived dissent. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has warned that without a substantial increase in funding and the restoration of essential services, the crisis could deepen, leading to further displacement and loss of life. The international community continues to call for the Taliban to adhere to international human‑rights standards while seeking ways to deliver humanitarian assistance amid the ongoing restrictions.