UNDP Launches New South Korea-Supported Economic Recovery Phase in Five Afghan Provinces
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on Monday announced the launch of a new phase of its economic recovery programme in five provinces of Afghanistan. The programme, which is being implemented with support from South Korea’s mission, focuses on improving livelihoods, rebuilding social infrastructure and increasing the resilience of communities in Kabul, Paktia, Ghazni, Nangarhar and Kunar.
According to the agency, the second phase of the programme builds on the achievements of the first phase and aims to strengthen recovery efforts and improve economic conditions in Afghanistan. However, unstable economic conditions and social restrictions imposed by the Taliban administration have created major challenges to achieving these goals.
The programme is being implemented at a time when the people of Afghanistan are facing a sharp decline in international aid and extensive economic restrictions, and the continuation of the livelihood crisis remains their main concern. The Taliban administration has so far not presented any specific plan to ensure sustained support for the recovery process, a matter that has raised doubts about the effectiveness of development projects in the country.
The economic recovery programme, REVIVE II, was designed within the framework of the United Nations’ humanitarian efforts, but the consequences of the Taliban administration’s inconsistent governance could limit its positive impact. International bodies and humanitarian organisations have repeatedly stressed the need for the Taliban administration to reform its policies in order to improve the economic situation.
