Life expectancy average decreases in Afghanistan, UN reports

In its annual report analyzing Afghanistan’s situation in 2023, the United Nations announced that the country continues to grapple with “complex and multifaceted challenges”, despite the “tireless efforts” of the organization and its partners to address issues in the nation, Khamma Press reported.

According to the report, titled “UN Annual Results Report for Afghanistan in 2023”, released on Thursday, April 18, approximately 15.8 million people will face food insecurity and emergency levels of vulnerability in 2024.

Citing Gallup survey results and polls carried out by UN agencies in Afghanistan, the organization concluded that the “average life expectancy in the past five years [in Afghanistan] has decreased.”

The year 2024 is described as “highly challenging” for the Afghan population, with deepening levels of need and emergency poverty levels.

The UN report says Afghans cite access to food as their most essential need. Millions who are unable to afford or produce basic sustenance face hunger and malnutrition.

The organization stresses the urgency of upholding human rights principles in Afghanistan and emphasizes the importance of remaining committed to human rights, gender equality, and women’s empowerment in 2024.