OWSA Contributor

The roots of this epidemic trace back to a cultural fascination among Pakistan’s elite, where lions and tigers serve as status symbols – often paraded on social media or at events.

Afghanistan’s recurring natural disasters – from earthquakes to extreme winters – highlight the country’s vulnerability, amplified by political isolation, economic hardship, and restrictive governance.

Nepal faces international obligations under the Sustainable Development Goals to reduce stunting to 15 per cent, wasting to four per cent, and underweight rates to 10 per cent by 2030 – targets that appear increasingly challenging, particularly in remote and underserved regions like Sudurpaschim.

The displacement has sparked humanitarian worries, with aid groups warning of food insecurity and health risks in winter.

These developments occur against a backdrop of worsening human rights under Taliban rule, including severe restrictions on women and girls, arbitrary detentions, and impunity for abuses.

Unchecked, these impacts could deepen conflicts and stall sustainable development goals, particularly SDG 6 on water and sanitation.

If these working group meetings proceed as planned, they will be the first major technical talks under the Doha framework to take place on Afghan soil.

In addition to financing, IFC will provide advisory support to NDB for modernizing digital banking, supply-chain finance, and climate risk management.