In this interview, UNHCR spokesman in Afghanistan, Charlie Goodlake, speaks with Amu’s Siyar Sirat about the mounting humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan — and the world’s shrinking response.
He says 4 million Afghan returnees have come back from Pakistan and Iran in just two years, many with “very little, returning to very little.” According to him, UNHCR faces a 50% funding gap, forcing it to cut staff, close offices, and reduce cash assistance.
He says women are hit hardest, as restrictions on female staff hamper aid delivery. In Kunar province, earthquake survivors still live in tents — with winter looming, he says.
