Along with so many people around the world, CAI’s staff and board are deeply distraught by the unfolding crisis in Afghanistan and gravely concerned for the safety of the Afghan people. The collapse of the Afghan government and the Taliban’s takeover of Kabul over the last 24 hours have put the country’s future on a highly volatile and ominous path. There is little certainty about what will happen next – or of what life under Taliban rule will look like.

Already those who have most to fear – Afghanistan’s women and girls – are fleeing for their lives. Our hearts go out to the innocent civilians who’ve been caught up in the violence or who are at risk. We’re deeply concerned for the hundreds of thousands of people who’ve already been forced to flee their homes, 80 percent of whom are women and children.

At this dark time, Central Asia Institute remains committed to doing all we can to continue our education programs. But for now, we’re shifting our immediate focus to the urgent needs of those who are most vulnerable. At present, we’re working with our local partners to assess the most immediate needs of the displaced, especially children, many of whom lack food, water, shelter, and healthcare. Please keep an eye out on our website and Facebook page for updates on how CAI is responding.

Thank you to everyone who has reached out to express their concern and offered their help. Your expressions of support and solidarity mean so much to us.

Never before in CAI’s 20-year history of working in Afghanistan has more been at stake for the Afghan women, girls, and families we serve. Yet, as always, we remain resolute in our commitment to do all we can to respond to this crisis and stand with the Afghan people. Thank you for standing with us.

If you would like to support our efforts and help meet immediate needs, please consider making a gift now.

With deepest gratitude,
Alice Thomas
Executive Director, Central Asia Institute