August 30th 2021

The Afghan health system is on the verge of collapse

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Afghanistan’s health system is dependant on the support from international NGOs. As a result, basic health services are financed by international donors. This funding has now been brought to a halt, with catastrophic consequences to the whole health system in the country.

For 20 years Afghanistan’s healthcare system has been strengthened and improved with support from international NGOs and donors. Endorsed by ongoing financial contributions, the system has become dependent on these actors to survive. Halting financial support to Afghanistan means the health system will collapse and 35 million innocent Afghans will lose access to even basic healthcare services.

Alongside other NGOs, HealthNet TPO faces the impossible task to continue our healthcare services with no commitment from international donors. Healthcare workers are being asked to work without any salary nor means to provide for their families. Medical suppliers who cannot be paid have stopped supplying vital medicines and materials. NGOs, including HealthNet TPO, cannot keep our services going without financial commitment and the health system will fall apart.

Children will lose their lives because they cannot access basic treatment for malnutrition. Mothers will lose their lives because they cannot access basic maternal healthcare. The most vulnerable will lose their lives because they cannot access basic health services. More than 24,000 health workers will also lose their jobs and their only means to provide for their families. 

Funding must continue to keep the Afghan health system from collapsing. The health of 35 million people is at stake. 

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Find out more about our work in Afghanistan