The United Nations Population Fund has announced that Afghanistan is one of the most challenging places in the world for women to give birth, with a mother dying every two hours due to preventable complications related to childbirth.
In a report, the organization stated that Afghan women and girls are facing challenges stemming from prolonged conflict and restrictions imposed by the interim government.
The report noted that the World Population Organization is providing services to women and girls to ensure their access to healthcare, support, and opportunities they deserve.
According to the United Nations Population Fund, fragile healthcare infrastructure and limited access to health and reproductive services, especially in rural areas, pose serious risks to mothers and newborns in Afghanistan.
The report highlighted that over the past three years, Afghanistan’s prolonged crisis has been exacerbated by widespread economic instability, restrictions on women’s work and education, forced return of migrants, and large-scale displacement.
The organization emphasized that it has provided healthcare services to over one million people across the country each month.
Piyu Smith, the regional director of the United Nations Population Fund for Asia and the Pacific, stated, “Only this year, the UN Population Fund has assisted over 660,000 Afghan youth, 80% of whom are women, through special youth communication programs. These programs provide healthcare services and livelihood support, including skills development for young people.”
It was further mentioned that climate change has also intensified the emergency situation in Afghanistan. Severe weather events have seriously impacted women’s and girls’ access to healthcare services.
Recent floods have claimed lives and deprived some communities of vital maternal and reproductive health services.
Mr. Smith indicated that the organization requires more resources to expand assistance to women and girls throughout Afghanistan.
The World Population Organization continues to urge the international community to stand alongside Afghan women and youth.
While the World Population Organization reports on maternal mortality in Afghanistan, the European Union has also expressed concern over this situation in the country.
It should be noted that Afghanistan has had the highest maternal mortality rate during childbirth for years due to a weak healthcare system.
