Afghanistan is facing a severe humanitarian crisis, with nearly 23 million people in need of aid. Each of these individuals has a name, a family, and a unique story.

We have a responsibility to support them and amplify their voices.

The people of Afghanistan are caught in a storm of global funding cuts and a pressured UN system, with women and girls suffering the most. The country is becoming an open-air prison.

In this darkness, our support shines as hope. We cannot let Taliban oppression be a reason to abandon Afghanistan; we must stay and continue our efforts.

The EU is alarmed by the forced returns of Afghans from Pakistan and Iran, which raise serious humanitarian and human rights issues. These returns can lead to devastating consequences, further destabilizing Afghanistan and the region.

We must insist on safe, voluntary, and dignified returns while enhancing support for those forced to leave.

We cannot let the world’s attention wane. The humanitarian and human rights situation is worsening daily. This Senior Officials Meeting is crucial to ensure the Afghan people remain a priority, demonstrating that our commitment is rooted in action.

Regional and European security is closely tied to Afghanistan’s stability. A peaceful Afghanistan benefits everyone, respecting international obligations and the rights of its people.

Achieving this requires a united, multilateral approach focused on inclusive governance and engagement with the Taliban.

The EU is committed to supporting the Afghan people’s aspirations for a stable and inclusive society where all citizens enjoy equal rights and opportunities.

We proudly maintain a humanitarian presence in Kabul, supporting the Afghan people and amplifying their voices, especially those of women and girls.

Political and humanitarian diplomacy must go hand in hand. Engagement with the Taliban is vital, especially as they erase rights from half the population. We urge them to reverse any bans stripping women and girls of their basic rights. This engagement is essential for delivering aid and securing access to those in need.

Funding must be urgently reinforced. Humanitarian aid alone won’t resolve this crisis—it’s a temporary fix. Long-term solutions are necessary to help people regain independence.

The best support we can provide is opportunity and empowerment—creating jobs and building resilience, as stronger societies lead to greater stability, which is foundational for security and prosperity.

Since the Taliban takeover in 2021, the EU has mobilized over €1.7 billion in aid, half for emergency humanitarian assistance and half for development support.

In today’s unpredictable world, the EU remains a reliable donor. As needs rise and donor support declines, we are stepping up. The EU is adopting a comprehensive approach that combines political engagement, humanitarian assistance, and support for basic needs.

This year, the EU will provide €161 million in humanitarian aid for Afghanistan, focusing on those inside the country and supporting Afghan refugees in Pakistan and Iran.

Our aid extends beyond humanitarian support. We are preparing an additional €100 million in development assistance to help Afghans meet basic needs, rebuild their lives, and reintegrate returnees, focusing on livelihoods and economic recovery.

This €261 million package combines humanitarian, development, and political efforts—a true nexus approach. We prioritize women, girls, and the vulnerable because no solution is sustainable without inclusivity.

All EU aid will follow one guiding principle: by women, for women. Every euro will be designed and monitored with Afghan women, focusing on their needs.

This evening, we will launch the Afghanistan Gender Index—a joint initiative by UN Women and the EU, reflecting our commitment to Afghan women and girls by providing crucial data on how Taliban policies impact their lives.

We are developing practical initiatives to support women and girls’ full participation in society, as economic empowerment leads to political empowerment.

The EU will continue to stand by those in need—with principles, purpose, and tangible support. However, we cannot do it alone. It’s time for other donors to unite with the Afghan people during these critical times.

We cannot let millions of vulnerable people sink deeper into crisis. Now is the moment for united action; Afghanistan’s future relies on sustained efforts across humanitarian, development, and political spheres.

This Senior Officials Meeting exemplifies our collective responsibility to the Afghan people, especially the women and girls who endure and continue to hope.

Today, we renew our mission to walk with the Afghan people for as long as necessary and keep the flame of dignity, equality, and freedom alive.