Some 97% of Afghans live in poverty, which has caused a severe humanitarian catastrophe in 2023 and beyond.
A deepening economic crisis persists, exacerbated by massive donor aid cuts since 2021 and corresponding pay cuts for essential workers, a severe liquidity crisis, skyrocketing prices for necessities like food, and banking sector-impacting restrictions from external governments. Acute malnutrition continues to affect millions of youngsters. More than 90% of Afghans experience food insecurity.

The Next Century Foundation urges the international community to navigate the way to peace in Afghanistan, by stating on what terms recognition would be granted to the government of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan.  This is particularly important when it comes to the UN Security Council P5 member states that have not yet recognised the new government (Britain, France and the United States of America) who are missing the opportunity to support women’s rights in Afghanistan by failing to do so. We ask for open dialogue between the government of Afghanistan and other states, and implore the government of Afghanistan to consider negotiations on women’s rights to improve the education, employment, and freedom of movement of women and girls in the country. With these strategies, we feel sure that the humanitarian crisis be alleviated.

Written Statement: Read The Statement Here 

This is the text of a written report submitted to the 54th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council by the Next Century Foundation, which is in Consultative Status with the UN. The report was prepared by NCF Research Officers – Juliette Feller and Saira Ghani.

The text can also be viewed below: