Afghanistan’s Youth Face Growing Unemployment, Uncertain Future Amid Economic Crisis

Afghanistan’s Youth Face Growing Unemployment, Uncertain Future Amid Economic Crisis
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Millions of young Afghans are facing increasing challenges, including unemployment, poverty, limited educational opportunities, and migration pressures, as the country marks World Youth Day on August 12.

Despite years of education and skills training, many Afghan youths have struggled to find stable employment due to a weak economy and a shortage of formal jobs. Many have been forced into informal work, low-paid labor, or migration in search of better opportunities.

According to the World Bank, nearly one in four young Afghans is unemployed, making youth employment one of the major obstacles to Afghanistan’s economic recovery. The situation has been further strained by the return of millions of Afghans from neighboring countries, with around 3.7 million people returning and increasing pressure on jobs and public services.

Humanitarian organizations have warned that many returnees, particularly those affected by deportations or forced expulsions, face difficulties securing housing, healthcare, education, and livelihoods. Young returnees often struggle to use skills gained abroad due to limited opportunities inside Afghanistan.

The crisis has also affected young women disproportionately, as restrictions on women’s education and employment have significantly reduced their ability to study, work, and contribute to the economy.