Statement by Project HOPE on the Situation in Afghanistan
Washington, D.C. (August 23, 2021) – Despite the uncertainty that looms over Afghanistan, there is no doubt that most Afghan citizens will need humanitarian aid and protection in the short and long term. Project HOPE is particularly concerned about the impact on health care, including mental health resources, and access to primary and critical care, especially for women and girls.
Aid organizations have a long-standing presence in the country, regardless of who has been in power. With nearly half of the country’s population in need of humanitarian aid and growing displacement, the presence of aid actors in Afghanistan is even more critical now than ever before.
As a humanitarian and global health organization, Project HOPE is in discussions with partners in the country to ensure the continuity of their health services, primarily to women and children, and exploring programs to alleviate the suffering of Afghan citizens, especially those recently displaced by the conflict.
The situation in Afghanistan is grave and we call on the international community to stand ready to support aid organizations in their response efforts and in providing humanitarian assistance to all those in need, while upholding the principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence.
About Project HOPE
With the mission to place power in the hands of local health workers to save lives around the world, Project HOPE is a global health and humanitarian organization operating in more than 25 countries. Founded in 1958, we work side-by-side with local health systems to improve health and support community resilience. We work at the epicenter of today’s greatest health challenges, including infectious and chronic diseases; disasters and health crises; maternal, neonatal and child health; pandemic preparedness and response; mental health for health workers; and the policies that impact how health care is delivered.
For more information, visit www.ProjectHOPE.org and follow us on Twitter @ProjectHOPEorg.