Afghanistan: Earth Day and the Plight of Afghanistan’s Landholders: Climate Change Threatens Country

Apr 24, 2024 | Amin Kawa, Hasht-E Subh
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Afghanistan is grappling not only with political and economic crises but also with the challenges of climate change. Declining groundwater levels, devastating floods, rising temperatures, reduced rainfall, untimely rains, and changes in humidity are all recognized signs of climate change in Afghanistan. Recently, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) expressed concern about the weather changes in Afghanistan. According to the organization, 67% of families in Afghanistan are facing drought-related problems, and 16% of the country’s areas are affected by floods. However, the United States Embassy for Afghanistan has stated that this country is at the forefront of combating climate change and joint efforts should be made in this regard. On the other hand, the Taliban have announced a three-day conference on climate change with the participation of representatives from governmental institutions and international organizations. They have urged the global community to resume suspended projects related to climate change and to consider technical and financial assistance separately from political issues.