The Situation
After two decades in Afghanistan, the withdrawal of U.S. troops earlier this month resulted in a swift overthrow of the current government by The Taliban militant group, who had control of the country prior to that time.
The Taliban is known for their oppression of women and have a history of violence. Desperate to flee from The Taliban’s assumed power, locals were photographed trying to escape at the airport, some getting injured or losing their lives clinging to the outside of airplanes filled to capacity during take-off.
Though some have made it safely to other countries, many still remain and those who are displaced are seeking refuge in places unknown to them in language and culture.
Ways to Help
Since the beginning of the crises, several groups have mobilized to bring relief to the Afghan people. Here are some of the actions we can take around the world to help:
- UNICEF is in the field helping displaced residents relocate, and protecting women and children. Click here to donate to UNICEF.
- Doctors Without Borders continues to provide medical assistance on the ground in Afghanistan during the crisis. Click here to support them.
- Hearts and Homes for Refugees assists with relocation of refugees in America. Click here to offer your home as a safe haven or donate to help.
- The British Red Cross has launched an emergency campaign to help the citizens of Afghanistan. Click here to donate.
- CARE Australia has set up an emergency fundraising campaign for Afghan aid. Click here to donate.
- Residents of Canada can help refugees by volunteering or donating funds. Click here to access a list of ways to help.
- Miles 4 Migrants uses donated airline miles to provide flights to those seeking refuge. Click here to see their update on Afghanistan and donate miles.
In addition to these actions, stay informed by reading updates from trusted news sources and verify the facts before sharing on social media.
As an international community, let’s come together and offer our support, empathy and love to the people of Afghanistan.
Photo of Afghanistan by Makalu/Pixabay
Thank you for highlighting this current humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan and in particular to raise the awareness regarding the plight that women and the most vulnerable in society are facing. Thank you for highlighting the plight of refugees. Thank you for raising the awareness about those fundamental humanitarian issues. Thank you for caring. This is not about politics, it’s about a humanitarian and societal disaster. It needs to remain in the news so that the voices of the voiceless, the voices of the people that are silenced by the regime can be heard.