On July 13, 2025, dozens of retired government employees gathered in Kabul to protest the non-payment of their pensions, a grievance that has persisted for four years under the Islamic Emirate’s administration. The retirees, many of whom served under previous Afghan governments, voiced their frustration over the financial hardship caused by the lack of pension disbursements, which they rely on for basic living expenses. The demonstration, held in front of government offices, underscored the growing economic challenges faced by vulnerable groups in Afghanistan.
The protesters, including elderly men and women, emphasized that their pensions, earned through decades of service, remain unpaid despite repeated appeals to the authorities. Some shared stories of struggling to afford food and medicine, highlighting the dire consequences of the delays. One retiree, Mohammad Asif, a 68-year-old former civil servant, stated that the lack of funds has forced many to borrow money or rely on family support.
The Islamic Emirate has acknowledged the issue but cited financial constraints and internal administrative challenges as reasons for the delays. The Ministry of Finance has promised to prioritize pension payments, but no timeline has been confirmed. Afghanistan’s economy has faced significant strain since 2021, with international aid cuts and sanctions limiting the government’s ability to fund social welfare programs. A recent report indicates that over 10% of Afghanistan’s population may lose access to basic services by the end of 2025 due to declining foreign support.
The protests reflect broader discontent among Afghan pensioners, who feel neglected by the interim government. While the authorities have focused on infrastructure projects like the Trans-Afghan Railway, critics argue that addressing domestic welfare issues, such as pension payments, should take precedence. The retirees vowed to continue their demonstrations until their demands are met, signaling ongoing tension in Kabul as the government navigates economic and political challenges.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, July 20th, 2025
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