Afghanistan: Humanitarian Update, August 2024

HIGHLIGHTS

World Humanitarian Day: A Call to Protect and Support Those on the Frontlines
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The Cost of Inaction: Millions of Lives at Risk Due to Funding Shortfalls in Afghanistan
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Climate Change and Resilience: Jamina Faizi’s Journey in Afghan Agriculture
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WORLD HUMANITARIAN DAY: A CALL TO PROTECT AND SUPPORT THOSE ON THE FRONTLINES

World Humanitarian Day (WHD), observed annually on 19 August, is dedicated to honouring humanitarian workers who devote their lives to assisting others in the most challenging circumstances. The date marks the anniversary of the 2003 bombing of the UN headquarters in Baghdad, Iraq, where 22 relief workers tragically lost their lives.

2023 was the deadliest year on record for aid workers globally, primarily due to the hostilities in Gaza but also due to intensified violence in Sudan and South Sudan. In total, 595 aid workers were affected, 280 humanitarians killed, 224 injured, and 91 kidnapped – the majority national staff. Regrettably, 2024 is on track to be even worse.

This year's WHD theme was "Act for Humanity," which emphasizes the urgent need to protect humanitarians and the civilians they serve in light of the normalization of attacks on aid workers and the impunity surrounding violations of International Humanitarian Law (IHL). To highlight this, the global humanitarian community participated in a symbolic walkout, stepping out of their offices with placards bearing key messages like #ActForHumanity and #NotATarget to remind Member States and conflict parties of their moral and legal obligations to protect humanitarian workers and civilians.

In Afghanistan, WHD commemorated the bravery and dedication of over 35,000 humanitarians who operate in some of the country's most remote and challenging areas, providing essential services including education, demining, food assistance, healthcare, protection, psychosocial support, and community outreach. Their efforts are crucial in delivering comprehensive care to those in desperate need.

In 2023, aid workers were able to reach 32.1 million people thanks to the generous support of donors. In 2024, they intend to support 17.3 million people. However, as of August, the Afghanistan Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan is only 25 percent funded, with a US $2.30 billion gap. This funding shortfall has already disrupted the delivery of life-saving assistance and essential services to the population in need, with programmes under threat of closure as a result of the resourcing shortfall.

World Humanitarian Day serves as a powerful reminder of the dedication and bravery of aid workers in Afghanistan and around the world. Their work is vital for millions of people facing crises. As we honor their efforts, let us also recognize that their mission continues. Sustained support is crucial for ensuring that humanitarian work can persist and provide hope amid adversity. This World Humanitarian Day, stand with aid workers and support their mission. Together, we can make a difference.