A recent report by BBC News has highlighted the heartbreaking humanitarian and economic crisis facing families in Ghor province of Afghanistan, where poverty, unemployment, and hunger are forcing some families to make painful and unimaginable decisions in order to survive.
No parent should ever be placed in a situation where they must choose between saving their children’s lives and losing their future. The sale of children, child labor, forced marriages, and deprivation of education are tragic consequences of poverty and the lack of sufficient social and economic support — not genuine choices made by families.
Afghanistan today is facing widespread unemployment, declining humanitarian assistance, severe drought, and increasing poverty. In such conditions, women and children suffer the most. Denying children access to safety, education, nutrition, and a secure future poses a serious threat to the country’s next generation and social stability.
Islamic teachings also strongly emphasize supporting those in need, showing compassion toward children, and protecting human dignity. Islam regards children as a trust from Allah and considers society responsible for their protection and well-being.
Afghanistan Organization Women Arise (AOWA) believes that combating poverty, supporting vulnerable families, creating employment opportunities, ensuring access to education, and protecting the rights of women and children are among the most urgent needs of Afghan society. Addressing the humanitarian crisis requires collective efforts from national and international institutions, stronger social solidarity, and serious attention to the situation of impoverished families.
We call upon responsible institutions, humanitarian organizations, and the international community not to forget the people of Afghanistan, especially vulnerable women and children. No child should become a victim of poverty, hunger, and hopelessness.
