The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has said that millions of children in Afghanistan are facing risks caused by climate change.
In a statement, the organization said Afghanistan ranks first among South Asian countries in terms of children’s vulnerability to climate change.
UNICEF added that millions of children in Afghanistan are simultaneously exposed to at least three climate hazards, including drought, floods and heatwaves.
Wildfires and dust and sandstorms are among the other hazards threatening children.
UNICEF said these events disrupt children’s access to essential services, including safe drinking water, healthcare and sanitation facilities.
Tajudeen Oyewale, UNICEF’s Representative in Afghanistan, said access to safe water is one of the most urgent ways to protect children’s health, dignity and future amid the climate crisis.
Various United Nations agencies warned in 2025 that Afghanistan would experience its most severe drought.
Afghanistan has been experiencing prolonged drought for several years.
