Afghanistan Peace Campaign
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has warned that climate change is intensifying Afghanistan’s humanitarian crisis, as repeated floods, droughts and extreme weather events increase the number of vulnerable people needing assistance.
IOM said climate-related disasters have caused an unprecedented rise in humanitarian needs across Afghanistan, while humanitarian organisations face growing challenges due to limited funding and reduced capacity to respond.
The organisation said recurring climate shocks have affected communities already struggling with poverty, food insecurity and limited access to basic services. Floods, droughts and environmental degradation have damaged livelihoods, particularly in rural areas where many families depend on agriculture and livestock for survival.
The worsening climate situation comes as Afghanistan is also facing additional pressure from the large-scale return of Afghan migrants from neighbouring countries, particularly Iran and Pakistan.
Humanitarian agencies have warned that millions of Afghans returning from abroad are arriving in communities that already lack sufficient jobs, housing, healthcare and food resources. Many returnees are settling in areas that are highly vulnerable to drought, water shortages and natural disasters.
According to humanitarian organisations, the combination of climate emergencies and forced returns has placed further strain on Afghanistan’s fragile economy and aid system. Communities hosting returnees are often among the same populations already affected by displacement, unemployment and food insecurity.
IOM said it is working with donors and humanitarian partners to provide emergency assistance to communities affected by climate-related disasters, prioritising people facing the greatest risks.
The agency called for increased international support and stronger long-term response mechanisms to help Afghanistan adapt to the growing impacts of climate change.
Humanitarian organisations have repeatedly warned that Afghanistan remains one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change, while declining aid funding threatens efforts to support millions of people facing worsening humanitarian conditions.