UNICEF Requests $520 Million for Returnees in Afghanistan
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) representative in Afghanistan has announced a request for $520 million from donor agencies to address the challenges faced by returnees. This was discussed during Tajuddin Owyalai’s meeting with Qari Din Mohammad Hanif, the Taliban administration’s Minister of Economy.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Economy, Owyalai stated that out of the total amount, $100 million will be allocated to provide essential services, while the remaining $420 million is earmarked for resettlement and support for returnee families. He emphasized that these funds are designed to meet urgent needs and alleviate economic pressures on returning families.
The UNICEF representative also reported ongoing humanitarian aid and support programs from the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), noting that these agencies continue to collaborate to address returnee challenges, combat food insecurity, and respond to the impacts of climate change.
Meanwhile, the Taliban’s Minister of Economy welcomed the continuation of humanitarian assistance but stressed the international community’s need to focus on development aid, job creation, and lifting sanctions. He said that facilitating employment opportunities and investment can help Afghanistan achieve economic self-sufficiency.
However, as the wave of returning migrants rises and the country’s economic infrastructure faces serious challenges, many returnee families still struggle with shortages of shelter, healthcare, and job opportunities—issues that appear difficult to resolve without a transparent, accountable plan from the Taliban administration and sustained international support.
