“The displacement and resettlement of Afghan refugees in the U.S. and elsewhere is one of the biggest humanitarian crises of our time. We feel a responsibility to step up,” – Brian Chesky, CEO, Airbnb
The Taliban takeover of Afghanistan has prompted a global humanitarian crisis and the mass evacuation of Afghan refugees. To date, the US said it had facilitated the evacuation of more than 80,000 people from Kabul airport. Humanitarian workers reportedly warn that 35 million Afghan civilians are in need of immediate help amid rising food costs, bank closures, and limited internet access.
As the situation unfolds, Brian Chesky, CEO, Airbnb urges business leaders to step up and offer support and resources to governments and NGOs.
Airbnb, working closely with Airbnb.org, has committed to housing for 20,000 Afghan refugees around the world at no cost to them. This commitment is funded through contributions to Airbnb.org from Airbnb and Brian Chesky, as well as donors to the Airbnb.org Refugee Fund. Around the world, Airbnb hosts offer support when it’s needed most. By opening up their properties to refugees, hosts are able to provide a temporary place to stay that helps refugees have peace of mind as they start their new lives.
This commitment builds on efforts that have already begun in support of Afghan refugees at Airbnb and Airbnb.org. Airbnb.org gave emergency funding and support to the International Rescue Committee (IRC), HIAS and Church World Service to provide immediate temporary stays via the Airbnb platform for up to 1,000 arriving Afghan refugees.
Read more about their commitment here.