Afghanistan Deepening Economic and Humanitarian Crisis

Afghanistan is facing a severe humanitarian and economic crisis, with nearly 28 million people living in poverty in 2025. The United Nations Development Programme's 'Afghanistan Socioeconomic Review' highlights that while the country saw modest economic growth of 1.9% in 2025, population growth of 6.5% led to a 2.1% decline in real GDP per capita. The crisis is exacerbated by the return of 2.9 million Afghans in 2025, worsening drought conditions affecting 64% of the country, and a 16.5% reduction in international aid. Furthermore, the Taliban's restrictions on women's rights continue to weaken the economy and labor force. The trade deficit widened to a record $11.3 billion, equivalent to 60% of nominal GDP, driven by rising imports and stagnant exports. Over 440 clinics were forced to close or reduce services due to funding shortages, increasing the proportion of people without healthcare access.