Global Focus | UNHCR's reporting website for donors

Afghanistan: Earthquake Emergency 6-month Impact Report

In October 2023, Herat Province in western Afghanistan was rocked by a series of devastating earthquakes with subsequent aftershocks. These events left over 275,000 people directly affected, with widespread destruction. Approximately 48,000 households as well as around 21,300 public buildings, including schools and health facilities were either destroyed or damaged.

The aftermath forced more than 37,000 families to seek refuge in makeshift shelters, exposing them to harsh weather and safety risks. UNHCR and its partners swiftly mobilized, providing life-saving aid to nearly 60,000 earthquake-affected people across 77 villages spanning eight districts.

A group of four people, three children and one man sit in the shade. The man helps the youngest child to drink from a cup.

The lives of millions have been torn apart by trauma, conflict, persecution, insecurity or human rights violations, and over 130 million people are expected to be forcibly displaced or stateless by the end of 2024.

From 17 displacement situations to detailed plans for 50+ country operations, the urgent call for investment is louder than ever, with budgeted needs of $10.622 billion for 2024.

The Global Appeal provides information about UNHCR’s plans for the coming year and the funding it needs to protect, assist and empower a record number of forcibly displaced and stateless people, and to help them find solutions to their situations.