Humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan deepens: 21.9 million people in need in 2026

Afghanistan faces one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises, with an estimated 21.9 million people—nearly 45 percent of the population—projected to require urgent assistance in 2026, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).

While this is a slight 4 percent decrease from last year, needs remain extremely high in a non-conflict setting. Persistent vulnerabilities, worsening food insecurity, climate-driven drought, natural disasters, mass cross-border returns, and serious protection risks—particularly for women and girls—continue to drive the crisis.

Food insecurity has reached alarming levels, with 17.4 million people expected to face acute hunger, including 4.7 million in emergency conditions, more than double last year’s figure. Drought affects 12 provinces, leaving 3.4 million people struggling for basic water and food.

La Niña forecasts of below-average rainfall and above-average temperatures could worsen conditions further.

Protection risks remain critical. Restrictions imposed by the de facto authorities on women and girls, combined with ongoing threats from explosive remnants of war, gender-based violence, child labor, and early marriage, leave millions vulnerable. Explosive ordnance injures or kills an average of 50 people each month, OCHA reports.

Mass returns from neighboring countries also strain fragile communities.

In 2025, more than 2.61 million Afghans returned from Iran and Pakistan, stretching limited services, livelihoods, and housing.

Humanitarian partners plan to reach 17.5 million people—around 80 percent of those in need—through a coordinated $1.71 billion response. Aid will focus on life-saving and protective interventions, including food, shelter, healthcare, nutrition, safe water, hygiene, and multipurpose cash assistance in the areas of greatest need.

OCHA emphasizes that while the overall number of people in need has slightly decreased, Afghanistan remains a global humanitarian priority, requiring urgent and sustained support to prevent further deterioration.