UN Warns of Rising Risks for Women Affected by Afghanistan Earthquake

UN Warns of Rising Risks for Women Affected by Afghanistan Earthquake
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The United Nations has raised alarm over the growing dangers faced by women and girls in eastern Afghanistan following the recent earthquake. According to UN Women’s Special Representative in Afghanistan, Susan Ferguson, they make up more than half of the casualties and 60% of those still missing. She stressed that the destruction of infrastructure and inadequate women’s health facilities are forcing many to travel long distances for care, exposing them to risks of violence and landmines.

Speaking at a press conference titled “Emergency Assistance for Afghan Women”, Ferguson warned of increased domestic violence in the aftermath of the disaster. She noted that displacement and the loss of livelihoods are heightening risks of gender-based violence. At least 463 female-headed households were directly impacted, alongside pregnant and nursing women facing severe health challenges.

Ferguson highlighted that Taliban restrictions on women’s work and education, combined with a shortage of female health workers, have further limited access to essential services and humanitarian aid. The UN official called for scaling up the presence of female aid workers and appealed for $2.5 million in funding for a six- to twelve-month emergency program. The initiative aims to improve access to healthcare and basic services for affected women while helping them cope with the disaster’s long-term consequences.