However you feel about American President Joe Biden's decision to withdraw American troops from war-torn Afghanistan after about two decades of the country's futile meddling, set it aside. The humanitarian crisis that has since emerged in the wake of the Taliban's shockingly swift takeover ought to be at the forefront of international conversation.
Estimates assume that about "18 million people, including nearly 10 million children[,] need humanitarian assistance," especially in light of the worsening situation in capital city Kabul, where many Afghani attempt flee from the local airport and seek international refuge.
Frustratingly, the turmoil in Afghanistan comes amidst a devastating Haitian earthquake and crushing power failures in Lebanon, just a year after the port explosion.
These are also incredibly important causes to support, whether its by helping fund meals for Haitias or aiding organizations that work on a local level.
As individuals, we can only do so much; if you aren't able to spare any money to donate, there's nothing to be ashamed of. Charitable efforts, funded through donation, are perhaps the best way to guarantee immediate relief for those who need it but there are also other ways to benefit Afghanistan's citizens and refugees.
For instance, awareness can be spread by resharing information on social media, petitions can be signed, political representatives can be contacted. Keeping up with the news via reliable sources is also a wise play.
There are also countless organizations in nearly every country across the globe seeking volunteers to help arriving refugees, from the UK to Berlin to Virginia.
By and large, streetwear brands and their ilk have yet to create charitable merch that addresses the plight of Afghanistan, but there are some companies offering aid, like charitable scarf label Azezana.
Below are some charitable organizations currently working to help Afghani citizens and refugees, all deserving donation. And, remember, always use Charity Navigator or a similar tool to assuage the funds that you're sending money to — public fundraising through venues like GoFundMe isn't necessarily a bad thing but be wary of giving cash to scammers.
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