Global Organizations Work to Restore Mental Health of Afghan Children After Earthquake

Following a devastating earthquake that struck parts of eastern Afghanistan, destroying homes and displacing many residents—especially children—humanitarian organizations have stepped in to bring hope back to young survivors by establishing child-friendly spaces.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in Afghanistan announced that these safe spaces have been set up in partnership with relief agencies to provide children with opportunities for play, learning, and psychological recovery.

Since the reopening of these centers, a significant number of affected children have visited them. Parents report that after the terrifying experience of the earthquake, their children are now engaging more confidently in educational and recreational activities at these facilities.

However, the ongoing response to natural disasters under Taliban rule faces serious challenges. Inadequate infrastructure, restricted access for humanitarian organizations to affected areas, and the Taliban administration’s lack of attention to child welfare have made full recovery efforts increasingly difficult.