The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) in Afghanistan has announced that Japan has contributed USD 2 million to the organization.
In a press release issued today (Wednesday, March 11), the agency said that the funds will be used to provide emergency assistance to Afghan returnees from Iran and Pakistan, as well as vulnerable host communities across Afghanistan.
UNHCR added that with Japan’s support, over 116,000 returnees, including women and children, will receive cash assistance, shelter, and other services over a period of 10 months. “Based on this contribution, UNHCR will provide emergency cash assistance to around 23,000 returnees; about 11,000 women and girls will benefit from specialized services to prevent and respond to gender-based violence, and 4,400 children will receive child protection services.”
According to the agency, Japan’s contribution will help reduce protection risks, strengthen social cohesion, and support returnees as they rebuild their lives with dignity.
UN data shows that last year, 2.8 million Afghans returned from Iran and Pakistan, many of whom are in need of shelter, food, and other essential services.
Japan has previously provided assistance to vulnerable groups in Afghanistan, including children, returnees, and populations affected by earthquakes.
