UNODC: 27,000 face high-risk drug use in Afghanistan, including women and children under 15

UNODC: 27,000 face high-risk drug use in Afghanistan, including women and children under 15
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The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has released a report revealing that approximately 27,000 Afghans are engaged in high-risk drug use, highlighting serious social and health challenges, Khaama Press reported. Published on Thursday in Kabul, the report estimates that among these individuals are 2,670 women and 2,150 children under 15 years old. Nearly half lack formal education, and one in five live without shelter.

The study indicates a shift from traditional cannabis and opium use toward more dangerous substances like heroin and methamphetamine, which increase risks of addiction, overdose, infectious diseases, and social isolation. Injection drug use is also prevalent, with 8% of users injecting drugs and over 75% sharing needles, raising concerns about HIV and hepatitis transmission due to limited access to sterile equipment.

While over half of those surveyed had received some form of treatment, access to quality care remains insufficient, particularly in rural areas. Women and youth face greater barriers to treatment because of stigma and a lack of specialized services.

Oliver Stolpe, UNODC Regional Representative, emphasized the importance of data-driven solutions to address Afghanistan’s evolving drug crisis. The report calls for targeted, evidence-based policies and increased investment in healthcare infrastructure to support prevention, treatment, and recovery efforts nationwide.