A recent report from the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) underscores that millions of dollars, transported in various shipments over the past three months, have reached Afghanistan.
According to SIGAR, each shipment, averaging $80 million, arrives in Kabul every 10 to 14 days, with the funds held in private banks in the UN's accounts.
"The State Department told SIGAR last quarter that UN cash shipments - averaging $80 million each - arrive in Kabul every 10-14 days. According to UNAMA, all cash is placed in designated UN accounts in private banks; no cash is deposited in central banks or provided to the Taliban," states SIGAR in its report.
Meanwhile, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) reported that approximately 69% of Afghans lack access to sufficient resources for their basic needs. The report reveals that Afghanistan's economy has contracted by 27% since 2020, leaving 7 out of 10 Afghans struggling to meet essential requirements for food, healthcare, and employment, reported ANI.
The Taliban claims that the aid money delivered to Kabul through the UN is allocated to education, health, and development projects. They emphasise that the Taliban merely evaluates the progress of aid organisations' activities.
"The aid given by the countries is implemented through international institutions in Kabul; this money is available to them, and the Islamic Emirate does not benefit from this money," states Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban's spokesman.
Despite the humanitarian crisis exacerbating since the Taliban's return to power in August 2021, some economic analysts argue that international support for Afghanistan's people is vital. They believe these financial packages contribute to fiscal stability and the economic growth of the impoverished country.
The situation in Afghanistan has worsened due to the collapse of the Afghan government and the ensuing humanitarian crisis. The Ukraine crisis has also significantly impacted rising food costs, making essential items unaffordable for the population. While the sectarian conflict has diminished, severe human rights violations persist, particularly against women and minorities.
Women and girls in Afghanistan continue to face challenges in accessing fundamental rights, including non-discrimination, education, work, public participation, and health, according to reports.