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2.4 Million Afghans Return to Dire Housing Crisis

8/9/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Over 2.4 million Afghans have returned from Iran and Pakistan, only to confront dire housing shortages and soaring rents in Kabul. Families like Hadia and Zaryab grapple with basic needs under Taliban restrictions on women's rights. Displaced individuals, including Mahnaz's family, endure life in makeshift camps, battling hunger and inadequate shelter, with minimal help from authorities.

History

Historical Context

The 1979 Soviet invasion of Afghanistan initiated a prolonged conflict, displacing millions. By 1985, over 3 million Afghan refugees were in Pakistan, facing dire conditions. As of 2023, approximately 2.5 million Afghans remain refugees, with many struggling under Taliban rule. This ongoing crisis highlights the enduring impact of war and the urgent need for humanitarian support and policy reform.

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Story summary

Over 2.4 million Afghans have returned from Iran and Pakistan, only to confront dire housing shortages and soaring rents in Kabul. Families like Hadia and Zaryab grapple with basic needs under Taliban restrictions on women's rights. Displaced individuals, including Mahnaz's family, endure life in makeshift camps, battling hunger and inadequate shelter, with minimal help from authorities.

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