Poverty and Climate Will Not Hold Them Down

Basic living standards in Afghanistan are among the lowest in the world. Yet experts stress that the latest poverty numbers should serve as a call to action, not a reason for despair:

• More than half the Afghan population now lives below the national poverty line, a sharp drop in the past five years (Afghanistan Living Conditions Survey, 2018)
• Afghanistan is experiencing stagnating economic growth (World Bank)
• 6.3 million people require humanitarian and protection assistance (ReliefWeb, 2019)
• Escalation of violence, loss of essential livelihood, and little to no access to basic services are major concerns (Relief Lab)

The country and its people are also adversely affected by global warming: Research suggests that climate issues, like a recent drought, is alarmingly linked to changes in climate. Many displaced families lost all crops and livestock, and struggled to survive cold winters in makeshift tents.

With all this considered, one thing remains clear: The people of Afghanistan are resilient and, with the support of donors like you, families in need there can access opportunities to break the chains of poverty and move toward success.

Islamic Relief’s Dedication to Afghanistan

Islamic Relief USA has served in Afghanistan for more than 20 years, and continues to prioritize those in dire need in Afghanistan today.

Here’s just a sampling of our recent efforts for families in need across Afghanistan

• Implementing literacy, education, career, and business programs for women
• Providing orphan support and vocational training to open opportunities for success
• Delivering urgent winter aid to help families cope through harsh winter weather

 Download Asia Donor Report  (updated: July 2019)