UN Assembly Expresses Concern Over Afghanistan's Humanitarian Crisis

The UN General Assembly has raised alarms over Afghanistan's deteriorating humanitarian situation, passing a resolution urging the Taliban to adopt inclusive governance. India abstained from the vote, citing concerns over the effectiveness of a 'normalcy' approach. As refugee returns from neighboring countries increase, the pressure on Afghanistan's services escalates, leaving many families in dire need of assistance. This article delves into the implications of the resolution and India's stance on the matter.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 8, 2025, 11:01 IST

UN Assembly Passes Resolution Addressing Afghanistan's Deteriorating Situation

On Monday, the United Nations General Assembly expressed significant concern regarding the worsening humanitarian, economic, and human rights conditions in Afghanistan. A resolution was overwhelmingly adopted, urging the Taliban to reverse oppressive policies and ensure an inclusive governance structure.

India Abstains from Voting on Afghanistan Draft Resolution

India chose to abstain from voting on a draft resolution concerning Afghanistan presented at the UN General Assembly on Monday. Officials stated that adopting a perspective that assumes 'everything is normal' is unlikely to yield the results envisioned by the global community for the Afghan people.

The draft resolution, introduced by Germany, received approval from the 193-member UN General Assembly, passing with 116 votes in favor. Two countries opposed it, while 12, including India, abstained from the vote.

India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj, clarified during the voting explanation that any effective policy addressing post-conflict situations must balance various measures, promoting positive actions while discouraging harmful ones.

Kamboj emphasized, 'We believe that a focus solely on punitive measures is unlikely to succeed. The UN and the broader international community have adopted more balanced and nuanced approaches in other post-conflict contexts.'

Rising Needs Amidst Refugee Returns

This resolution comes at a time when the humanitarian situation in Afghanistan is under increasing strain. According to UN agencies, waves of returns from Pakistan and Iran, including both refugees and those in refugee-like situations, have intensified pressure on services, particularly in border provinces that are struggling to accommodate new arrivals.

These returns, many of which are involuntary or coerced, have heightened security risks and left thousands of families in urgent need of food, shelter, and basic services.