Afghanistan’s earthquake: When a disaster meets a humanitarian crisis

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Afghanistan is facing one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, especially since the withdrawal of U.S. and coalition forces in August 2021. Compounding severe food insecurity, multiple natural hazards and Taliban rule, a 5.9 M earthquake hit eastern Afghanistan on June 22. Killing at least 1,000 people, injuring more than 1,600 others, and destroying or damaging 2,000 homes, the earthquake is the most devastating in two decades.

It will take millions of dollars and years for Paktika province and other affected areas to recover. But this will not be a “typical” disaster recovery. The earthquake will be the Taliban authority’s first real test of governance in a crisis. Many nongovernmental agencies left when the Taliban took over, while others carefully negotiate response activities to support the affected population. Funding directly to them will be a critical way to move money into the country.

The Center for Disaster Philanthropy is hosting a webinar to provide funders with information about the intersection of an environmental disaster in the midst of a humanitarian crisis. Speakers will answer such questions as:

• What does long-term recovery look like in the context of Afghanistan?
• How do you navigate ongoing needs from the complex humanitarian emergency and immediate needs from the earthquake?
• How can funders support recovery while respecting sanctions?