Why the Earthquake in Afghanistan Needs to Shake Up the West

A series of powerful earthquakes, surpassing a magnitude of 6.0, struck Herat Province in Western Afghanistan on October 7th, 2023, accompanied by ongoing aftershocks. The aftermath triggered an international response to provide humanitarian aid to affected communities. Initial assessments indicate staggering damage, with over 21,500 homes either destroyed or severely damaged in the Herat, Injil, and Zindajan districts, impacting approximately 154,000 people. Plummeting temperatures as winter approaches exacerbate the situation, and there is an urgent need for shelter, reconstruction, and livelihood restoration support. Daniel Peter Endres, acting UN Humanitarian Coordinator for Afghanistan, described the situation as “a race against time” as they have been “grappling with decades of conflicts and under development,” he told journalists in New York via video link.

The initial two earthquakes resulted in 1,480 fatalities and 1,950 injuries. Satellite imagery illustrates the widespread impact, affecting 513 villages, with ongoing assessments to ascertain the full extent. Approximately 43,400 individuals across six districts are profoundly affected, particularly in Injil and Zindajan, where the devastation is most severe. In Injil alone, over half of the affected population resides, while Zindajan houses the majority of the 3,330+ homes destroyed so far. The earthquakes have also damaged vital infrastructure, including schools and health facilities, with 21,300 buildings affected.

The aftermath has forced families to seek refuge in makeshift shelters or open spaces, leaving them vulnerable to various hazards, from weather-related risks to health and safety concerns. Immediate aid and sustainable solutions are critical to help these communities endure the harsh conditions and rebuild their lives.

Afghanistan’s healthcare infrastructure faces considerable strain due to the recent earthquakes, a strain exacerbated by restrictions imposed under Taliban rule. Women are prohibited from pursuing education and employment in healthcare settings, while female aid workers from non-governmental organisations are banned from contributing to humanitarian crises such as earthquakes. Alongside a shortage of crucial equipment, a limited healthcare workforce and a rise in Crimean Congo haemorrhagic fever cases have complicated the healthcare system's response efforts. Medical professionals, including doctors and nurses, are working extensive hours to attend to the injured, intensifying existing shortages and burnout among healthcare workers in Afghanistan.

The aftermath of these earthquakes is poised to extend far beyond physical injuries and property damage, likely profoundly impacting the affected population psychologically. The sudden and traumatic nature of the disaster will likely elevate stress, anxiety, and depression among survivors and those who have lost loved ones. Displacement, loss of homes and belongings, and uncertainty about the future will all contribute to the psychological distress experienced by affected communities.

Overcoming the challenges facing Afghanistan's healthcare system post-earthquake requires a dedicated focus on disaster preparedness and response planning. A comprehensive strategy involving government agencies, healthcare providers, and local communities is essential. Increased financial support and resources are vital to bolster the healthcare system’s ability to respond effectively in similar situations. 

The influx of refugees from Pakistan, prompted by the deadline for undocumented foreign nationals to leave, has further complicated the response to the earthquake in Afghanistan. Over 120,000 individuals have already returned, with more anticipated in the near future. Many recent returnees have been away from the country for extended periods or have never resided there and need more local support networks. Their arrival intensifies the challenges faced by the already-stretched humanitarian efforts in Afghanistan. 

Neil Turner, Country Director for Afghanistan at the Norwegian Refugee Council, echoed these concerns, emphasising that the recent surge of Afghan returnees from Pakistan has placed immense strain on the country’s fragile infrastructure and scarce resources. He expressed deep worries about their well-being, emphasising the added pressure this places on the already overstretched humanitarian operations in the region.

While the Taliban remain in charge, change seems unlikely. With a lack of clear governance structures, Taliban rule will lead to further and perpetual disaster for Afghans.  Perhaps re-engagement with the regime, despite its appalling human rights record, is the only way forward to alleviate the suffering of the Afghan people as they face disaster after disaster. This includes investments in infrastructure, equipment, personnel and ensuring an adequate supply of medical provisions. Improving communication and information systems within the healthcare framework is crucial to facilitate seamless coordination and collaboration between healthcare providers and disaster responders.