Three years since the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan – Bond statement

Today, Thursday 15 August, is the third anniversary of when the Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan following the US and NATO’s withdrawal of military forces from the country.

Afghanistan has been facing one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises since the Taliban seized power three years ago. The UN estimated that in 2024, 23.7 million people – more than half of Afghanistan’s population – are projected to require humanitarian assistance.

Reflecting on the third anniversary of the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan, Gideon Rabinowitz, Director of Policy and Advocacy at Bond, said:

As we mark three years since the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan, the country still faces severe humanitarian challenges, including economic instability, food insecurity, and ongoing human rights violations, particularly against women and women’s access to education and employment. We urge the UK and the international community to reaffirm their commitment to the Afghan people through continued humanitarian assistance and diplomatic efforts. Sustained international engagement remains crucial for the country’s stability and the wellbeing of its people.

ENDS.

Notes for editors

• In July 2024, the Independent Commission for Aid Impact (ICAI) released its review on UK humanitarian aid to Afghanistan which found that UK aid has made a meaningful difference in Afghanistan but the amount of assistance from the UK and other donors is falling. Read Bond’s reaction to the review.

• Bond is the UK network for organisations working in international development. Bond unites and supports a diverse network of over 350 civil society organisations from across the UK, and allies to help eradicate global poverty, inequality and injustice.

• For further information or interviews please contact Jess Salter at [email protected] or call 07493200979.