The International Organization for Migration (IOM) says protection needs across Afghanistan remain at critical levels, with vulnerable populations continuing to face serious shortages of essential services and support.

In a report released on Tuesday, IOM warned that women, children, youth, and other marginalized groups are exposed to significant security and social risks, highlighting the urgent need for sustained protection assistance nationwide.

According to the report, IOM provided protection services to more than 132,000 people across Afghanistan in 2025. A total of 132,775 individuals accessed protection support, while an additional 64,877 people received emergency cash and in-kind assistance.

The report also noted that 73,179 individuals benefited from specialized protection services at border crossings and return areas. In addition, 8,101 women and girls gained access to dedicated services tailored to their specific protection needs.

IOM emphasized that ongoing economic and social challenges continue to drive high levels of protection needs across the country, stressing that delivering specialized support to vulnerable communities remains a top priority.

The warning comes as IOM previously reported that it helped preserve 9,599 jobs in Afghanistan in 2025 and created new employment opportunities for thousands of people, as part of broader efforts to strengthen resilience and support livelihoods amid the country’s prolonged humanitarian crisis.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has warned that Afghanistan is facing more frequent and severe natural disasters each year, driven by the growing impacts of climate change.

In a report released on Tuesday, IOM said climate change has significantly intensified the scale and severity of natural hazards across the country, increasing humanitarian needs among vulnerable communities.

According to the report, IOM provided emergency humanitarian assistance to 27,679 disaster-affected families across Afghanistan in 2025. Among them, 6,901 vulnerable families received winter assistance, including heating equipment, clothing, and other essential seasonal items.

The report also noted that 15,030 families benefited from emergency support such as non-food items, cash assistance, and family tents. In addition, 2,147 families received shelter support, while 3,601 families gained access to clean water and healthcare services.

IOM said the figures highlight the scale of growing humanitarian needs in Afghanistan, particularly as natural disasters become more frequent and intense due to climate change.

The organization called for sustained and strengthened support to help vulnerable communities cope with recurring emergencies and to enhance resilience against future climate-related disasters.

The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) achieved significant progress in 2025 across diplomacy, security, and development, according to spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid.

Diplomacy and International Relations

Mujahid stated that the IEA was formally recognized by Russia, and cabinet members—including deputy prime ministers and ministers—undertook 99 foreign trips to strengthen economic, trade, and diplomatic ties. These efforts reflect the Emirate’s commitment to expanding international cooperation and enhancing Afghanistan’s global standing.

Security Forces Training

The Ministry of Defense trained 181,084 security personnel last year. Additionally, 100,300 police officers completed specialized training in areas such as security, criminal investigation, border management, and logistics.

Construction and Water Management

Mujahid noted that nine major dams have been completed or are under construction, along with 341 small dams, aimed at improving water management nationwide.

Support for Addicts and Vulnerable Communities

A total of 35,228 drug addicts received rehabilitation and reintegration support, while 10,664 beggars in major cities were stabilized and provided with a cash grant of 2,000 AFN each to meet basic needs.

Return of Afghan Migrants

The spokesperson highlighted that 2.8 million Afghan migrants and citizens returned from abroad in 2025. Their repatriation was efficiently managed, with essential services provided and residential settlements being distributed to support returnees.

These achievements underscore the IEA’s efforts to advance diplomacy, strengthen security, manage natural resources, support vulnerable communities, and facilitate the safe return of Afghan migrants.