Critics on Monday blasted the Afghan government over its economic and employment strategy in 1395, saying the political leadership has failed to improve the economy and create jobs for the people.

The National Union of Afghanistan Workers and Employees (NUAWE) criticized government’s employment strategy and said the unemployment rate sharply increased in 1395.

“Some of our refugees were expelled from neighboring countries such as Iran and Pakistan, but there was not enough space to provide them with jobs, therefore unemployment has risen in 1395,” said Maroof Qaderi, chairman of the labor union.

Statistics from the Ministry of Labor, Social Affairs, Martyrs and Disabled (MoLSMD) show that currently the number of people seriously affected by unemployment is estimated to be 1.9 million.

“In general we can say that the unemployment rate fortunately reduced at the end of 1395,” said Abdul Fatah Ahmadzai, spokesman for MoLSMD.

Ezmarai Saidkhaili is one unemployed youth who has a bachelor's degree in economics said he has not been able to find a decent job and is now driving a taxi. 

“All government institutions are involved in corruption, they hire someone on the basis of relations, bribes and money,” said Ezmarai.

Labor market statistics show that the number of new people entering the labor market is estimated to be about 450,000 people a year. 

“If we find a job for one day, then we remain unemployed for two other days, we cannot handle expenses when earning two or three hundred AFs (a day)," said Shah Agha.