Engineer Dies Following Self-Immolation in Kabul Due to Economic Hardship

The funeral of an engineer who set himself on fire in Kabul has drawn attention to the economic difficulties facing many in Afghanistan. Shams, originally from Kapisa and a graduate of Kabul University's engineering program from eight years ago, carried out the act on the 29th of Saur. The location was in District 10 near Phase Three of Aria Town in the capital.

Shams, who was married and the father of three daughters, passed away the next day at Esteqlal Hospital. According to accounts, he had been searching for employment without success at both official government positions and private organizations. He expressed that poverty and unemployment, along with the shame he felt in front of his family, led him to take this drastic step.

This uncommon occurrence has generated considerable sorrow and discussion on social media networks. Many have interpreted it as a sign of the severe economic conditions and lack of prospects for young educated people in the country. Supporting this view, the United Nations has stated that nearly 28 million individuals in Afghanistan in 2025 were living without the ability to fulfill their basic requirements.