How Did Afghanistan Become the World's Most Food-Insecure Nation?
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Synopsis
Discover the grim reality of Afghanistan's food crisis, where 75 percent of the population is struggling with livelihood instability. With over 12 million urgently needing food assistance, the situation is dire. Explore the factors contributing to this crisis and the urgent call for international aid to prevent a humanitarian disaster.
Key Takeaways
- 75 percent of the population faces livelihood instability.
- Over 12 million individuals require immediate food assistance.
- Political turmoil and climate change exacerbate food insecurity.
- Women and children are disproportionately affected.
- Increased humanitarian aid is crucial to prevent disaster.
Kabul, August 1 (NationPress) Afghanistan has been identified as the most food-insecure nation in the world, with a staggering 75 percent of its population experiencing instability in their livelihoods. Over 12 million individuals are in dire need of food assistance as the country grapples with deepening drought and pervasive poverty, according to a report from the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) released on Friday.
The FAO's report indicates that Afghanistan has once again secured the top position in the list of nations suffering from food insecurity for the years 2024 and 2025. A total of 295 million people across 53 nations are facing acute hunger, marking an increase of 13 million since 2023, as reported by Afghanistan-based Khaama Press.
Since 2016, Afghanistan has been included in the FAO's chronic hunger list, alongside countries like Congo, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Syria, and Yemen, largely due to ongoing political instability, humanitarian crises, and the impacts of climate change. Poverty is a significant contributor to the escalating food insecurity in Afghanistan. The return of over 1.6 million Afghan migrants from Iran and Pakistan, declining international aid, and stringent economic restrictions have driven countless Afghans below the poverty line.
According to the UN, 75 percent of Afghanistan's population is facing challenges related to livelihood security, with more than 12 million individuals in urgent need of food assistance. Repeated droughts, widespread unemployment, and damaged agricultural infrastructure have severely hampered the country's domestic food production capacity.
In provinces such as Ghor and Badakhshan, crops have been devastated, and livestock farming has been significantly disrupted. Women and children are especially at risk in Afghanistan, with the Taliban's restrictions on women's employment and education further limiting families' access to essential income sources.
Meanwhile, the World Food Programme (WFP) has warned that unless there is a substantial increase in humanitarian aid, hunger-related deaths in Afghanistan will continue to rise sharply. FAO officials have highlighted that Afghanistan's food crisis is a perilous combination of conflict, climate disruptions, and failing livelihoods. Aid agencies have reiterated their plea for support from the international community, cautioning that Afghanistan could devolve into one of the world's most devastating hunger disasters without sustained funding and access for relief operations.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize Afghanistan's plight as a national priority. The food insecurity affecting millions is a humanitarian crisis that demands immediate attention from both local and international communities. We must advocate for policies and aid that directly address the root causes of this crisis to ensure a sustainable future for Afghanistan.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing food insecurity in Afghanistan?
Food insecurity in Afghanistan is driven by a combination of factors including political instability, ongoing humanitarian crises, climate change effects, and economic restrictions.
How many people in Afghanistan need food assistance?
Over 12 million people in Afghanistan are currently in urgent need of food assistance.
What role do women and children play in this crisis?
Women and children are particularly vulnerable in Afghanistan, facing increased challenges due to restrictions on employment and education.
How can the international community help?
The international community can assist by providing substantial humanitarian aid and supporting relief operations to address the escalating food crisis.
What are the long-term implications of this crisis?
Without sustainable solutions, Afghanistan risks facing one of the world's most severe hunger disasters, threatening the livelihoods of millions.
