Airbnb to House Afghan Refugees: 20,000 Offered Temporary Shelter
Airbnb to Provide Housing for Afghan Refugees
Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky announced on Tuesday a plan to offer temporary housing, free of charge, to 20,000 Afghan refugees globally. This initiative comes in response to the Taliban’s recent resurgence in Afghanistan.
Funding and Implementation
The costs associated with this housing will be covered by Airbnb.org, the company’s nonprofit arm, and a dedicated Refugee Fund. Personal contributions from Brian Chesky himself will also be utilized to support the effort.
Airbnb will collaborate with various non-governmental organizations (NGOs) through Airbnb.org. This partnership will facilitate the provision of emergency housing during times of crisis.
A Humanitarian Response
“The large-scale displacement and resettlement of Afghan refugees represents a significant humanitarian challenge of our era,” Chesky stated in a social media post. “We recognize a moral imperative to assist.”
Hosts on the Airbnb platform who are willing to open their homes to refugee families escaping Afghanistan will soon have the opportunity to register. Further details regarding host participation and broader community support will be released shortly.
Initial Efforts and Ongoing Support
The company has already successfully placed 165 refugees in secure accommodations after their arrival in the United States this past weekend. Airbnb intends to work closely with resettlement agencies to refine the program and offer ongoing assistance.
Global Context and Refugee Numbers
This initiative is unfolding as tens of thousands of individuals attempt to leave Afghanistan. Companies and governments are facing mounting pressure to provide aid to those fleeing the country.
According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, there are currently nearly 2.5 million registered refugees originating from Afghanistan. Approximately 58,700 people have been evacuated from Kabul, the nation’s capital, since August 15th.
A Welcoming Environment
“The initial accommodation for these 20,000 Afghan refugees as they rebuild their lives is critically important,” Chesky explained in a formal statement. “I hope the Airbnb community can offer not only safety and a fresh start, but also a genuine sense of belonging.”
Past Humanitarian Work
Airbnb has a history of providing free housing to individuals in need. In 2017, the company extended assistance to refugees, students, and green card holders impacted by a former presidential executive order restricting entry.
More recently, Airbnb provided free or subsidized housing to 100,000 healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the past four years, the platform has facilitated temporary housing for approximately 25,000 refugees.
- Airbnb is committed to supporting Afghan refugees.
- The initiative will be funded through Airbnb.org and personal contributions.
- Collaboration with NGOs is central to the program’s success.
