Published on: 2026-11-06
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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November 6, 2026 Peace and Security
Afghanistan is facing a worsening humanitarian and economic crisis. Despite relative stability and improvements in security, the country remains vulnerable to climate disasters and regional tensions, warned Bruno Lemarchand, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Afghanistan and the UN Resident Coordinator in the country. He also recalled the harsh restrictions on the rights of women and girls.
Speaking to journalists at the UN headquarters, Lemarché listed among the main problems the worsening food situation, the mass return of people from neighboring countries, the reduction of international funding, and the collapse of basic services. According to him, the international community must continue engaging with Afghanistan: the consequences of inaction could affect regional stability, security, and migration.
Five years after the Taliban returned to power, restrictions on the rights of women and girls continue to tighten: they are denied access to education, work, healthcare, and participation in public life. Women are also increasingly excluded from humanitarian operations, especially in Herat province. Since September 2025, Afghan UN female staff have been unable to enter the premises of its facilities. Funding cuts have also severely impacted organizations that provide essential services to women.
“The restrictive policy of the [Taliban] administration and the tightening of comprehensive restrictions, especially concerning the fundamental rights of women and girls, have led to the continuation of the country’s international isolation,” Lemarkey stated.
He noted that Afghanistan is “at a difficult crossroads”: the country maintains a certain level of stability and security, but at the same time, its economy is extremely fragile and humanitarian needs are growing.
The situation in the field of education is causing serious concern. Since 2021, more than 2.6 million Afghan girls have been deprived of the opportunity to receive secondary education, and the number of female university students has dropped to zero. School attendance among boys is also declining: due to economic difficulties, families are forced to rely on the earnings of their children. The return of a large number of people from neighboring countries adds additional strain to the already weakened education system.
“The education of Afghan girls remains one of the most pressing issues in the world. Restricting girls’ access to education, disrupting educational pathways, and numerous obstacles in the system’s operation have long-term consequences for the country – for protecting people, healthcare, social cohesion, and the future development of Afghanistan,” emphasized the UN representative.
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