Protection needs in Afghanistan remain at critical levels: IOM

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) says protection needs across Afghanistan remain at critical levels, with vulnerable populations continuing to face serious shortages of essential services and support.

In a report released on Tuesday, IOM warned that women, children, youth, and other marginalized groups are exposed to significant security and social risks, highlighting the urgent need for sustained protection assistance nationwide.

According to the report, IOM provided protection services to more than 132,000 people across Afghanistan in 2025. A total of 132,775 individuals accessed protection support, while an additional 64,877 people received emergency cash and in-kind assistance.

The report also noted that 73,179 individuals benefited from specialized protection services at border crossings and return areas. In addition, 8,101 women and girls gained access to dedicated services tailored to their specific protection needs.

IOM emphasized that ongoing economic and social challenges continue to drive high levels of protection needs across the country, stressing that delivering specialized support to vulnerable communities remains a top priority.

The warning comes as IOM previously reported that it helped preserve 9,599 jobs in Afghanistan in 2025 and created new employment opportunities for thousands of people, as part of broader efforts to strengthen resilience and support livelihoods amid the country’s prolonged humanitarian crisis.