At least 70% of Afghans struggle in poverty with no jobs: IOM

KABUL (Khaama Press): The International Organization for Migration (IOM) recently released a report saying that 70% of the Afghan population lives below the poverty line. This revelation sheds light on the dire economic conditions faced by the people of Afghanistan. The organization said, “At least 70% of Afghans live below the poverty line and are jobless.” It continued, saying, “Amidst a collapsing economy, small and medium-sized businesses continue to lay off staff.” The organization also warned on Tuesday on social media platform X and emphasized that “Time is running out, and Afghanistan cannot wait.” Afghanistan’s soaring poverty rate profoundly impacts society, limiting access to essentials like food, clean water, healthcare, and education. Insufficient funds curtail individual and communal efforts to elevate living standards and break free from poverty’s vicious cycle. Previously, the United Nations noted the Taliban administration’s resurgence heightened the demand for Afghan humanitarian aid. Meanwhile, reports indicate that the de facto administration’s establishment led to the loss of approximately 900,000 jobs and a significant surge in the need for aid. In addition, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of humanitarian affairs reported a stark rise in Afghanistan’s needy population, increasing from 6.3 million in 2019 to 28 3 million in 2023. According to the 2023 report, the United Nations presented contrasting data to those released by the International Organization of Migration (IOM). The report said that following the Taliban’s rise to power, Afghanistan’s official economy experienced a significant and devastating decline, with an estimated 95-97 per cent of the population now living below the poverty line. Amid the current humanitarian crisis, the Taliban administration has enforced stringent constraints on women’s involvement in aid agencies and local organizations. This has further worsened the already dire humanitarian situation.