The Role of Remittances in Family Economies
Sabiha azimi- As unemployment and economic hardship continue to challenge the livelihoods of countless families in Afghanistan, remittances from Afghan migrants abroad have become one of the most critical sources of household income. Thousands of Afghans living and working in various countries regularly send a portion of their earnings back home to support their families—a flow that experts describe as "a lifeline between migrant effort and family survival."
Tesla, a 26‑year‑old Afghan residing in Germany, told weezha Roz: “I send an average of around 400 euros per month to my family in Afghanistan.
Supporting my family and helping them meet their essential needs is the main reason for sending this money.”
He added that his family uses the funds primarily for food supplies, rent, medical expenses, education, and other daily necessities.
Tesla emphasized: “Despite the cost of living abroad, I try to set aside part of my income to help my family, because without this support, they would face even greater difficulties in meeting their basic needs.”
Similarly, Sahar Ayobi, a 23‑year‑old Afghan living in Switzerland, said: “I send about 150 to 200 euros to my family each month.”
She believes that while this amount may not solve all of her family’s economic problems, it can at least cover part of their needs and ease the financial pressure.
Inside Afghanistan, many families rely on these remittances to cover their living expenses but in some cases, the flow is irregular.
Sadia, a 35‑year‑old teacher, told weezha Roz that her relatives live abroad, but their financial support does not reach her on a consistent basis.
“Sometimes the money comes, and sometimes I receive nothing for long periods,” she said.
“Despite this situation, I try to manage my needs with my own income from teaching.”
On the other hand, Sajeda, a 32‑year‑old woman who was deprived of continuing her education, said that a large portion of her living costs is covered by her brother, who lives overseas.
She added: “This support has played a significant role in my life and has met many of my daily needs.”
Economic experts consider migrant remittances as one of the most important support mechanisms for Afghanistan and warn that any decline or disruption would directly hit household livelihoods.
Shahab Hussaini, an economic analyst, told weezha Roz: “Remittances from migrants currently play a very crucial role in the economy of Afghan families.
Many households cover a part of their expenses through these funds, and this money is effective in reducing economic pressures and preventing the spread of poverty.”
He further stressed: “Given the limited job opportunities in the country, any decrease in remittances could have significant effects not only on family economies but also on the broader national economy.”
Migrant remittances today are no longer just a simple transfer of money from one country to another.
They represent a bridge between the efforts of Afghans abroad and the urgent needs of their families back home a vital assistance that, for many households, is essential for daily survival.
Any major disruption to this flow would carry heavy consequences for millions of people.
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