UN Warns of Fragile Economic Situation for Women in Afghanistan
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has warned that the economic situation for women in Afghanistan remains highly fragile, with their access to job opportunities and financial resources still limited.
In a report released on Tuesday, February 10, UNDP stated that 75 percent of Afghanistan’s population faces insecurity in meeting their daily needs, and 88 percent of female-headed households lack access to basic living necessities. These figures highlight the widespread economic pressure on vulnerable groups, especially women.
According to the report, only seven percent of women are employed outside the home, compared to an employment rate of 84 percent for men. UN-affiliated agencies emphasized that extensive restrictions on women’s work and social presence, intensified following the Taliban’s takeover, have directly undermined their economic independence.
The World Food Programme also added that before 2024, only 11.8 percent of adults in Afghanistan had a bank account, and access to formal credit for women-led small and medium enterprises was very limited—conditions that have hindered the growth of local economic activities.
The United Nations stated that, in response to this situation, the European Union has funded a project for 2024–2025 implemented in six provinces. This initiative provides practical economic solutions for women, increases their access to financial services, and supports the development of women-led small and medium enterprises through financial aid.
