Aid for Afghanistan Coalition Statement: Humanitarian assistance still needed in Afghanistan after two years under the Taliban government

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OTTAWA, ON - As we mark two years since the leadership change in Afghanistan, the humanitarian crisis is widespread and the need for international support is desperately needed. Access to health care, food, water, sanitation, education, and other social and economic needs remain a challenge for people in Afghanistan. While local actors are working tirelessly to address these needs, Canadian organizations are keen to once again provide support for this work. 

The coalition is encouraged by the Government of Canada's recent passage of Bill C-41. This is an important move forward and efforts are underway to restart vital work that provides assistance to the people in Afghanistan. As we turn our focus towards once again mobilizing our operations, we remain hopeful that Bill C-41 represents the first step of continued engagement and further progress between government and organizations to ensure there are no more unnecessary regulatory and bureaucratic barriers preventing aid from reaching those in need, regardless of where they live, and to advance an interpretation of relevant law and best practice that includes a broad range of humanitarian activities. 

The Aid for Afghanistan Coalition wishes to thank all Canadians who demonstrated their support by contacting their elected officials in an effort to persuade the Government of Canada to limit barriers on Canadian aid organizations. The Aid for Afghanistan Coalition will continue to monitor the impact of Bill C-41, persist in its advocacy for people living in Afghanistan and other complex environments, and work towards addressing humanitarian needs with our local colleagues and partners. 

To support the critical work in Afghanistan which includes the provision of humanitarian assistance to people in Afghanistan, please visit the websites of the organizations listed below.  

Canadian Red Cross
World Vision Canada
Islamic Relief Canada
Canadian Women for Women in Afghanistan
Save the Children Canada
Cooperation Canada
Canadian Foodgrains Bank
Presbyterian World Service & Development
Humanitarian Coalition
Development and Peace -- Caritas Canada
Canadian Partnership for Women and Children's Health (CanWaCH)
CARE Canada
Plan International Canada