In its latest report, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) has ranked Afghanistan among the ten countries most affected by climate change. Surprisingly, while Afghanistan contributes very little to global greenhouse gas emissions, it is suffering severe consequences due to climate change. According to the IOM, since 2022, climate change has become the primary cause of internal displacement in Afghanistan, surpassing the traditional threat of conflict.
Climate change has led to devastating droughts, severe floods, and other natural disasters, impacting nearly half of the Afghan population. These events have not only caused water shortages, land degradation, and food insecurity but have also triggered widespread poverty, internal displacement, and significant economic challenges. The IOM report highlights that, over the past three years, climate change—not war—has emerged as the leading factor behind internal displacement in Afghanistan, marking an unprecedented shift for the country.
In light of this, the Afghan caretaker government faces a substantial responsibility. Its first priority must be to mitigate the effects of climate change and provide necessary assistance to those affected. While climate change is a global issue, countries like Afghanistan bear a disproportionately heavy burden. The caretaker government must develop long-term strategies to combat climate change and work in close coordination with international agencies and partners to deliver urgent relief services to regions hardest hit by natural disasters.
The government’s responsibility, however, goes beyond emergency aid. Long-term and sustainable solutions are equally critical. Reconstruction and development projects should be initiated in the areas most affected by climate change. Key measures include building water reservoirs, rehabilitating forests, and implementing initiatives to protect agricultural lands. These actions are essential steps to mitigate the impact of climate change and prevent future disasters.
The international community also plays a crucial role in this effort. Securing global support to fight climate change and ensuring that developed countries fulfill their commitments to reducing greenhouse gas emissions can significantly contribute to addressing Afghanistan’s climate challenges. It is the responsibility of international aid organizations and the global community to closely monitor the ongoing crisis caused by climate change and provide immediate assistance to families displaced by these environmental changes.
Ultimately, climate change poses not only a natural threat to Afghanistan but also a serious risk to its social and economic stability. If the Afghan caretaker government and the international community fail to take necessary measures, the consequences will become even more severe, displacing millions of Afghans and depriving them of basic necessities. Swift and decisive action is required to address this pressing issue before it spirals out of control.