UN Women has reported that women and girls in Afghanistan account for 60 percent of people who may face food insecurity as the conflict in the Middle East intensifies.
The agency said on Friday, October 2, that by the end of 2026, an additional 11.7 million women and girls in 28 countries, including Afghanistan, may face food insecurity.
UN Women added that around 95 percent of women in Afghanistan are outside the labor market.
According to the agency, about 80 percent of employed women also work in vulnerable jobs.
UN Women said rising energy, fertilizer, transportation and food costs resulting from disruptions to trade routes could place additional pressure on families and humanitarian operations.
The agency stressed that access to food and livelihoods for women must be maintained to reduce the impact of food insecurity. It also called for women’s and girls’ needs and experiences to receive greater attention in response programs.
The agency also called for de-escalation of tensions and respect for international law.
