Afghanistan
House of Commons · Written Statements · 16 Jul 2026 · 1 speech · Official Report
Today I am updating the House on the UK’s ongoing humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan and setting out how the Government will continue to support the Afghan people in the years ahead. Nearly five years after the Taliban takeover in August 2021, the humanitarian situation remains severe and at risk of further deterioration. Nearly 22 million people will require humanitarian assistance this year, including 17.4 million facing acute food insecurity. Afghanistan faces one of the highest global burdens of child and maternal malnutrition, with nearly 5 million women, girls and boys expected to require treatment in 2026. Recurrent climate shocks, including drought and flooding, continue to drive food insecurity and vulnerability, and ongoing structural challenges continue to impact access to essential health services. These pressures are compounded by regional instability, economic fragility and disrupted supply chains. The Taliban’s severe restrictions on women and girls, including on access to education, employment and participation in public life, continue to undermine fundamental freedoms and contribute to broader human rights concerns in Afghanistan. Women and girls should have equal access to opportunities and be able to participate fully in society. The ongoing denial of these rights presents a significant barrier to Afghanistan’s long-term development, stability and prosperity. As we enter a new spending review period, this is an opportunity to reaffirm and renew our...