Afghanistan is facing one of the world’s most severe and prolonged humanitarian crises. Years of conflict, economic collapse, natural disasters, and the near-total absence of human rights protections have left millions struggling to survive. For LGBTIQ+ Afghans, these emergencies are not only life-threatening — they are compounded by targeted violence, social exclusion, and the inability to safely access mainstream humanitarian aid.   Queer Afghans often remain invisible in crisis response. Fear of exposure, discrimination by service providers, and the complete criminalization of LGBTIQ+ identities under the Taliban mean that many cannot seek help openly. During earthquakes, floods, food shortages, and conflict-related displacement, our community is consistently among the last to receive assistance — if they receive any at all.   ALO’s Humanitarian Program was created to respond to this gap. As a refugee-led organization rooted in lived experience, we reach individuals traditional aid systems cannot. Since 2021, we have provided life-saving cash assistance to over 700 LGBTIQ+ Afghans, helping them survive displacement, hunger, eviction, and urgent protection risks. This includes people inside Afghanistan as well as those navigating transit countries such as Turkey and Pakistan.   In addition, between 2021 and early 2023, ALO supported over 100 LGBTIQ+ Afghans with relocation to safe third countries, primarily in Europe, in collaboration with international partners. For many, this support meant the difference between remaining in imminent danger and beginning a new life in safety.   Our assistance continues to include emergency cash relief, safe-housing support, crisis guidance, mental-health referrals, and tailored information to navigate immediate risks. We have supported survivors of targeted violence, individuals escaping forced marriage, trans people facing arrest, and LBTQ women trapped in unsafe households. In dozens of cases, ALO’s intervention has served as the only safe avenue available.   Beyond direct assistance, we document the humanitarian barriers faced by LGBTIQ+ Afghans and advocate for more inclusive, rights-based aid within international systems. Through research, briefings, and partnerships, we work to ensure that humanitarian actors recognize the specific risks faced by queer people and respond with dignity and protection.   Below, you can explore our reports, case studies, and resources to better understand the lived realities of LGBTIQ+ Afghans during crises.