These climate impacts have also triggered internal displacement and migration. Climate change has been identified as a growing factor in the displacement crisis, adding to Afghanistan’s already precarious humanitarian situation.
Afghanistan, one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable nations, is grappling with the dire consequences of a warming planet. Despite contributing minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions, Afghanistan faces profound environmental and humanitarian challenges exacerbated by decades of war, economic instability, and environmental degradation.
Rising Temperatures and Escalating Natural Disasters
Since 1950, Afghanistan’s mean temperature has risen by 1.8°C, surpassing the global average increase of 1.5°C. This has intensified the frequency and severity of natural disasters, including droughts, floods, and landslides. Recent floods in the spring and summer displaced over 20,000 people, claimed more than 300 lives, and inflicted over $400 million in economic losses, destroying homes and agricultural land.
The agricultural sector, a cornerstone of Afghanistan’s economy, has been severely impacted. Rising temperatures and irregular weather patterns have disrupted farming and livestock, pushing millions into food insecurity. UNDP highlights that the agricultural value chain, critical for 80% of the population’s livelihoods, is under severe strain.
Water Scarcity and Humanitarian Challenges
Afghanistan, traditionally a major source of freshwater for its neighbors, now faces acute water scarcity due to climate-induced changes. UNICEF reports that eight in ten Afghans lack access to safe drinking water. Furthermore, over 64 per cent of the population is affected by drought, exacerbating food shortages and economic hardships.
These climate impacts have also triggered internal displacement and migration. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) identifies climate change as a growing factor in the displacement crisis, adding to Afghanistan’s already precarious humanitarian situation.
The Human Cost
Beyond environmental destruction, the human toll is immense. Millions of Afghans face starvation amid escalating climate and economic crises. Vulnerable groups, including women and children, bear the brunt of these compounded challenges. Landmines left over from decades of conflict add another layer of risk, endangering communities already struggling to cope with climate-related adversities.
Limited International Support
The collapse of the Western-backed Afghan government in 2021 and the Taliban’s subsequent takeover have complicated the nation’s ability to address the climate crisis. International donors, concerned about human rights issues under the Taliban, have halted billions in development aid. Humanitarian assistance has significantly diminished, leaving Afghanistan ill-equipped to adapt to or mitigate climate impacts.
While a Taliban delegation is observing the UN Climate Conference (COP29) in Baku, the lack of international recognition and funding limits their ability to secure the resources needed for climate resilience.
UNAMA’s Efforts and Future Prospects
The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) is actively studying the impacts of climate change and drought. The mission aims to assess the number of vulnerable individuals and address their needs. Indrika Ratwatte, UNAMA’s deputy special representative for development, emphasized the importance of timely measures to mitigate these impacts.
UNAMA also seeks to raise awareness among returning Afghans about climate risks and unexploded ordnance, which remain significant threats. Collaborative efforts with Afghanistan’s National Disaster Management Authority aim to improve humanitarian aid management and promote public awareness of landmine dangers.
A Global Responsibility
Afghanistan’s plight is a stark reminder of the disproportionate burden borne by vulnerable nations in the global climate crisis. While the country contributes little to global emissions, its people face the catastrophic consequences of a warming planet.
Addressing Afghanistan’s climate challenges requires urgent international cooperation. Enhanced funding for adaptation and resilience, coupled with effective local governance, is critical. Failure to act risks deepening the humanitarian crisis and destabilizing an already fragile region. As the world deliberates climate action at forums like COP29, Afghanistan’s struggles highlight the pressing need for inclusive global strategies that prioritize the needs of the most vulnerable.
