Overview
IAWG recognizes the rapidly evolving and increasingly acute humanitarian crises in Afghanistan due to the recent escalation of violence–including specifically against women and girls–and the mass displacement of an estimated 3.5 million people1. We recognize that community leaders, particularly those who advocate for and advance the lives of women and girls, are on the frontlines of the crises that are currently unfolding and deepening.
Explore the resources below to learn more about IAWG member organizations' mobilizing in support of Afghanistan.
October 2023 Earthquake
On October 7, 2023 at around 11:00 local time, a devastating 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck 25 miles west of Herat City in Herat Province, western Afghanistan. Following the initial quake, several aftershocks rippled through the region, affecting neighboring provinces of Badghis and Farah as well. By October 15, 2023, two additional 6.3 magnitude earthquakes had struck Herat Afghanistan, exacerbating humanitarian needs in the region.
The latest official reports indicate over 1,400 lives lost and 1,853 people – two thirds of whom are women and girls – injured across eleven villages of Zindajan district, Herat Province. More than 43,000 people have been affected.
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CARE Begins Emergency Response to Support Communities Affected by Powerful Earthquake
A powerful earthquake hit Afghanistan, 7 October, causing widespread destruction and devastating loss of lives. CARE Afghanistan Deputy Country Director Reshma Azmi described the impacts in the country as well as CARE's emergency response.
IRC: How to Help After the Earthquake in Afghanistan
This earthquake has only worsened the plight of these vulnerable communities. The situation is especially dire for women and children, who now face increased risks of exploitation and abuse in their displacement, further intensifying their vulnerability.
UNHCR Afghanistan Earthquake Response | Emergency Appeal October 2023 – March 2024
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency is urgently appealing for US $14.4 million to address the immediate, emergency needs of people affected by the earthquake in Afghanistan’s Herat Province.
The Crisis of Maternal and Child Health in Afghanistan
This research highlights results from surveys and in-depth interviews conducted with maternal and child healthcare providers in Afghanistan to explore their perceptions of changes in working conditions, quality of care, and health outcomes since the Taliban takeover in August 2021.
Rising Conflict in Afghanistan: 393,000 Newly Displaced People Need Emergency Aid — Give Now
The need in Afghanistan is overwhelming and growing fast as conflict escalates and drives more than 393,000 newly displaced people from their homes. They need food, water, shelter, and protection. Please give now to rush emergency aid to displaced Af
- https://www.unhcr.org/en-us/news/briefing/2021/7/60ed3ba34/unhcr-warns-imminent-humanitarian-crisis-afghanistan.html

