On 16-17 June, the European External Action Service (EEAS), together with the Directorate-Generals for Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (DG ECHO) and for International Partnerships (DG INTPA) gathered in Brussels senior officials from the EU institutions, EU Member States, international partners and civil society to discuss the dire situation in Afghanistan. The discussions focused on political developments, humanitarian challenges, and basic needs support in the country, including a new EU humanitarian aid package of over €161 million for vulnerable populations in Afghanistan and neighbouring countries.

Four years into Taliban rule, Afghanistan remains in the grip of a severe socio-economic crisis. Approximately 23 million Afghans are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance, making it one of the world’s most critical emergencies. The human rights situation continues to deteriorate—especially for women and girls—prompting strong calls for a united international response.

The humanitarian aid package announced by the EU will provide food, healthcare, malnutrition treatment, clean water, sanitation, legal and protection services, emergency education (especially for girls), and disaster preparedness. All aid is delivered exclusively through humanitarian partners working directly on the ground.

Participants stressed the need for a coordinated and inclusive approach that supports a peaceful and stable Afghanistan, anchored in international norms and obligations. Afghan voices—regardless of gender, ethnicity, or religion—must shape the path forward. Regional stability is inseparable from Afghanistan’s future. Sustained technical engagement with the de facto authorities remains necessary to ensure humanitarian access and address urgent basic needs, while advancing a coordinated response to Afghanistan's complex challenges.

Discussions also highlighted the importance of integrating humanitarian support with longer-term, sustainable solutions. Combining immediate life-saving aid with initiatives that foster resilience and stability is essential as needs increase and financial resources dwindle. The participants explored ways to improve the living conditions of the Afghan population, especially through agricultural development, private sector engagement, and access to finance. They put a strong emphasis on the principled “by women, for women” approach to aid delivery. This is critical for ensuring women’s participation and fostering local economic growth.

The meeting gathered senior officials from the EU Institutions, EU Member States, Gulf countries, major donors, G7 partners, the United Nations, the World Bank, and representatives of Afghan and international civil society and NGOs.