Afghanistan: Pension Decree Ignored for Months

In Afghanistan, retirees are facing prolonged delays in receiving their pension payments, despite a decree issued nearly four years ago aimed at addressing their financial needs. Many pensioners gathered recently in Kabul, expressing frustration over the lack of progress in implementing the promised reforms. These individuals, who rely on pensions for their livelihood, voiced concerns about their inability to afford basic necessities like medicine and food due to the unpaid funds.

The delay has left thousands of retirees in financial distress, with some reporting they have not received payments for years. For example, one pensioner from Jawzjan province shared the hardship of returning home empty-handed, unable to cover medical expenses for his family. The situation is compounded by Afghanistan’s broader economic challenges, including high unemployment and reduced international aid, which have strained public resources. Local officials have acknowledged the issue but have yet to provide a clear timeline for resolving it, citing administrative and financial hurdles.

Social media posts on X reflect growing public discontent, with many urging the interim government to prioritize pension disbursements. The lack of action has sparked calls for greater transparency and accountability in managing public funds. Retirees continue to demand swift implementation of the decree to alleviate their ongoing struggles.

Published in SouthAsianDesk, June 29th, 2025

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