The International Rescue Committee (IRC) has announced that the reduction in global aid to Afghanistan is driving the country toward both an economic and humanitarian crisis.
In a report published on its website today (Wednesday, October 30), the IRC stated that if the decline in international assistance continues, Afghanistan will lose 10 percent of its Gross National Income (GNI).
However, Abdul Rahman Habib, spokesperson for the Ministry of Economy of the Islamic Emirate, said that the decrease in international aid has had no impact on Afghanistan’s GDP. He added:
“Humanitarian aid does not affect the decline of the country’s gross domestic product. We believe that overcoming this situation depends on relying on domestic resources. Combating food insecurity requires a comprehensive and multi-dimensional approach. Fundamental solutions must be considered through addressing immediate needs and participating in the long-term programs of international institutions.”
According to the IRC, over the past decade, global aid to vulnerable countries, including Afghanistan, has decreased by 40 percent, which has significantly affected the livelihoods of their citizens.