Afghanistan Times
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KABUL – A series of powerful earthquakes that struck eastern Afghanistan on 31 August has killed over 2,200 people and left thousands more homeless, highlighting critical gaps in international humanitarian response and new vulnerabilities for women.
Remote villages in Nangarhar and Kunar provinces remain cut off, and aid workers warn that reaching survivors is increasingly difficult as winter approaches. “The main needs are temporary shelter, healthcare, mental health support, and water and sanitation services,” said Laura Chambrier from the French NGO Première Urgence Internationale (PUI).
Funding shortages are worsening the crisis. The United Nations’ $139.6 million appeal for emergency aid remains largely unmet, as Western donors have reduced both humanitarian and development assistance. Hans Johansen, co-director of French NGO Acted in Kabul, explained that only $10 million has been mobilized for earthquake relief so far, compared with significantly higher support in previous years.
Restrictions imposed by Afghan authorities further complicate relief efforts, particularly for women. Aid organizations must navigate regulations requiring women to be accompanied by male relatives to access services, leaving many at risk of going untreated for days. “Women and girls will again bear the brunt of this disaster, so we must ensure their needs are at the heart of the response and recovery,” said UN Women Afghanistan Special Representative Susan Ferguson.
With winter looming and Western support lagging, humanitarian organizations warn that urgent action is needed to prevent further loss of life and protect the most vulnerable in the quake-stricken region.
