For the first time in 20 years, the Taliban has reclaimed control of Afghanistan.
While this conflict may feel far away, it is a budding humanitarian crisis that simply can’t be ignored. Although we may feel helpless, there are ways we can empower the people in one of the poorest countries in the world.
As the Taliban regime takes hold, Afghans fear a return to the brutality and injustices of previous decades and are desperately trying to flee the country. The Taliban is known for its cruel authoritarian rule, particularly when it comes to women and children. Before 2001, women were not allowed to work outside the home, were required to cover their faces and bodies, and had to have a male escort everywhere they went. Female children were not even allowed to go to school.
In the past two decades, women have been treated more equally and have made huge strides. Now, all of that progress could be lost, and the people of Afghanistan are desperate to get out.
This is a US air force plane, evacuating Afghans to Qatar. It is a Reuters photo, also published by the New York Times. #Afghanistan pic.twitter.com/XtCO4RaqRW
– Sharif Hassan (@MSharif1990) August 17, 2021
Here at InspireMore, we believe there’s always something we can do to help. Not only that, but everyone deserves a helping hand! With that in mind, here are a few ideas to help Afghan citizens in their time of need.
1. If you’re not an expert, keep silent.
Everyone has an opinion, but at the end of the day, it’s not about politics; it’s about people. Be kind and empathetic, and remember that these are just men, women, and children who can’t control their situation and are doing everything they can to stay safe.
2. Support the people who are experts.
Journalists, leaders, teachers, activists, and researchers have been the “boots on the ground” in Afghanistan. Listen to what they have to say, and amplify their voices so that others can benefit from their experiences and knowledge.
3. Welcome refugees and other displaced humans.
4. Call your political representatives.
Ask them what efforts are being made to evacuate the countless Afghans who have worked alongside our troops, reporters, and allies for the past 20 years. Ask how you can help, either financially or by fostering a family.
5. Send financial support.
- Doctors Without Borders (Médecins Sans Frontières) continues to administer free medical assistance throughout the conflict zone.
- Crisis in Afghanistan supports the Afghan Learning Academy. They give food, shelter, bedding, tents, and first aid essentials to displaced families.
- Rukshana Media supports female Afghan reporters who are working in the country.
- Islamic relief: Afghanistan assists families displaced by violence.
- The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is sending lifesaving aid, money, and protection to the people of Kabul, Afghanistan’s capital city.
- Afghan Aid supports families who have lost their homes and livelihoods nationwide.
- The Afghan Women and Children and Jalala Foundation is working to protect women and children.
- Flyaway Emergency Afghan Mission is organizing a flight to rescue hundreds of people who have an immediate risk of execution.
6. Finally, don’t let them fade from memory.
Use hashtags like #Afghanistan, #AfghanLivesMatter, and #HelpAfghanistan on social media to keep the conversation alive.
It’s easy to turn a blind eye, but we are better than that! As Margaret Mead once said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
Share this story to encourage your friends to help wherever they can.
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