UNICEF: Afghanistan Is Facing the Second Largest Humanitarian Crisis in the World

Photo: IRC

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has announced that Afghanistan, with over 23 million people in need, including 12 million children, is experiencing the second largest humanitarian crisis in the world.

According to the organization’s latest report, the restrictions imposed by the Taliban on women and girls have significantly increased humanitarian needs across the country.

UNICEF emphasized that the ban on girls’ education, especially at the secondary level, has seriously affected their learning opportunities. At present, no secondary schools for girls are open in Afghanistan.

The report also states that the effects of climate change, natural disasters, poverty, and lack of adequate access to healthcare, nutrition, and clean drinking water have placed the lives of millions at risk.

The United Nations has repeatedly warned that the Taliban’s restrictions on women not only violate human rights but also hinder the delivery of aid to those in need.

Although the international community has called for the removal of these restrictions, the Taliban have so far ignored these demands and continue to insist on implementing policies they claim are based on "Sharia."