The Economic Consequences of Climate Change for Afghanistan: Losses, Projections … and Pathways to Mitigation
Publisher: Afghanistan Analysts Network
Author(s): Mohammad Assem Mayar
Date: 2025
Topics: Climate Change, Disasters, Livelihoods
Countries: Afghanistan
Despite contributing minimally to global emissions, Afghanistan faces escalating economic and social crises from climate change. Climate shocks, such as from floods, droughts, landslides, avalanches and extreme temperature events, cause annual economic losses estimated between USD 550 million in a normal water year and USD three billion in a drought year – equivalent to between almost 3.2 per cent and more than 18 per cent of GDP. The country has not received the adaptation funds promised to the poorest countries, leaving it increasingly vulnerable to climate-related hazards. AAN’s guest author, Mohammad Assem, delves into the economic toll of climate change on Afghanistan, analysing the challenges posed by the non-recognition of the Islamic Emirate and the stringent criteria set by donor countries for climate funding.