Afghanistan’s climate crisis is not a distant threat, it’s happening now: UN official

The United Nations is sounding the alarm that Afghanistan’s climate crisis is no longer a distant or future concern—it is unfolding in real time, severely impacting the lives and livelihoods of millions, as well as the natural systems on which the population depends.

“Afghanistan’s climate crisis is not a distant threat. It is happening now, impacting lives, livelihood, and the natural systems that all its people depend on.

“The consequences of inaction will be catastrophic. Not only for Afghans, but for regional stability and the global humanitarian efforts,” said Indrika Ratwatte, Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Afghanistan, in a recent video message.

The warning comes as Afghan officials also express growing concern over the lack of international support in addressing the escalating environmental challenges the country faces.

Speaking at a press conference on Sunday, Zainul Abideen Abid, Deputy for Policy and Technical Affairs at the National Environmental Protection Agency (NEPA), stated: “The question of recognition is still in their hands. If we are to seek compensation, it must be from the United Nations. Unfortunately, no tangible support has been provided so far.”

Despite the limited assistance, Abid highlighted that NEPA has made significant progress over the past year in protecting forests and natural resources, with some support from international partners.

Officials also reiterated a directive from the leadership of the Islamic Emirate, explicitly prohibiting the cutting of forests across the country.

Meanwhile, Rohullah Amin, NEPA’s Director of Climate Change, announced that Afghanistan requires approximately $2 billion annually to implement its climate action strategies.

He also said that NEPA has developed a roadmap for participating in COP30, the upcoming UN Climate Change Conference.