Red Cross Warns Global Aid Cuts Could Have Catastrophic Impact on Afghanistan
The Regional Head for Asia and the Pacific of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies has warned that the reduction and cessation of global aid would have “tragic and catastrophic” consequences for the people of Afghanistan, placing vulnerable populations at greater risk. Alexander Mateo stated in a video message that with reduced aid, children are being forced into labor, girls face early marriages, and many families lose young children due to hunger and cold. He emphasized that this situation is directly linked to the decline in humanitarian support. Referring to the situation in Afghanistan’s villages, especially in the eastern regions, Mateo highlighted that hunger and malnutrition have long existed; however, until recently, residents could at least access feeding centers or primary health clinics in emergencies. According to the Red Cross official, due to the halt in global funding, hundreds of health and aid centers across the country are closing, creating a severe gap in people’s access to basic services and increasingly calling into question the Taliban’s responsibility to provide minimum humanitarian needs. Alexander Mateo added that the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, in cooperation with the Afghan Red Crescent, is striving to keep primary healthcare clinics and relief operations running to the extent possible to respond to those in need. He stressed that these efforts cover only a small part of a deep and chronic crisis, but the goal is for the Afghan Red Crescent to stand with the people in times of emergency. He concluded by expressing hope that Afghanistan’s friends and donors will continue their humanitarian support.
