WHO and UN Women launch joint initiative to support women and children with drug use disorders in Afghanistan

[Press release]

Kabul, Afghanistan — In a collaborative effort to tackle the pressing health issue of drug use disorders among women and children in Afghanistan, the World Health Organization (WHO) and UN Women have launched a new initiative aiming to reintegrate vulnerable women with drug use disorders and their children into the community by providing a comprehensive package of protection, drug use disorder treatment and mental health services.

The initiative adopts a holistic and gender-sensitive approach to improve access to integrated mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) services into quality and evidence-based drug use disorders treatment for women with drug use disorders. It also enhances the capacities of key health staff in targeted facilities to deliver gender-responsive and trauma-informed services. Community-based outreach and mobile protection services have additionally been considered to ensure continuity of care and reduce the stigma associated with mental health and drug use disorders.

"This WHO-UN Women collaboration signifies our strong commitment to tackling the urgent challenges of drug use disorders. By prioritizing the needs of women and children, we strive to advance public health in Afghanistan and build a more resilient society where all has equal access to health," said Dr. Jamshed Tanoli, Acting WHO Representative to Afghanistan.

Afghanistan has faced a significant drug use problem for decades, exacerbated by continuous conflicts and instability. As of June 2024, nearly 4 million individuals, approximately 10% of the population, are affected by drug use disorders. However, the prevalence among women and children emphasizes the urgency of addressing this issue especially with the adverse effects of drug use extending beyond individuals, impacting entire families and communities, with women and children often bearing a disproportionate burden of its consequences.

“Media and anecdotal reports point to a sharp decline in women’s mental health, exacerbated by their increasing social isolation, and the scarcity of and stigma around accessing support services. Our collaboration with WHO will seek to provide comprehensive and much-needed support,” said Alison Davidian, UN Women Special Representative to Afghanistan.

In launching this joint initiative, WHO and UN Women reaffirm their commitment to protecting the rights of women and children whose health, development, and well-being are the most affected by drug use, perpetuating cycles of harm and deprivation within households.