Technical Note on CVI & Districts Ranking_Version II 14 May 2026

The Composite Vulnerability Index (CVI) and accompanying district ranking remains a transparent, data‑driven tool to help us prioritize geographic areas for investment of (re)integration and broader basic human needs programming, targeting Afghan returnees and displacement‑affected communities. This version applies the same consistent methodology, with rankings updated in April 2026.

The Technical Note on CVI includes a clear discussion of the index’s limitations and considerations (section 2.3) – as is standard practice for any evidence‑based prioritization tool. The CVI is designed as a primary guide for strategic planning, to be used alongside field‑based validation and sectoral analysis.

Expanding the CVI for broader Basic Human Needs (BHN) programming

Following the presentation of the CVI methodology and district rankings to the UNCT and the DS Steering Group, the DS Secretariat was tasked earlier this year with integrating a few socio-economic indicators – for which we have selected indicators from UNICEF MICS data and the UNDP Subsistence Insecurity Index – to make the CVI more relevant for cross‑sectoral BHN programming beyond durable solutions.

The objective of this expansion is to supplement, not duplicate, the existing CVI. It is not intended to create a new index. We will strengthen the current framework while maintaining full consistency, including the same district listings. To ensure methodological rigour and avoid double‑counting, we will review indicators already incorporated or considered in IPC Phase classifications (Phase 3 and above) and those used in determining Drought Severity Levels.

The following potential indicators are proposed for incorporation:

• UNICEF-led district-level geostatistical data, including nighttime lighting, which can serve as a proxy for socio-economic vulnerability.
• UNICEF provincial-level Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) analysis, which will support a deeper understanding of pre-existing vulnerabilities, deprivation levels, and absorption capacity, particularly in DACs and high-return districts, with a focus on social service provision and gaps.
• Consumer Price Index (CPI) data, to capture inflation dynamics within provincial socio-economic analysis, drawing on NSIA data from the annual statistical yearbook.
• UNDP-led Subsistence Insecurity Index, based on district baseline data from REACH’s Whole of Afghanistan Assessment (WoAA).

These additions will significantly strengthen the CVI’s analytical depth and practical utility for all partners for cross-sectoral programming – UN agencies and INGOs alike.

For further information, please contact Durable Solutions Secretariat, Integrated Office of the DSRSG/RC/HC, UNAMA Development Pillar:

• Farhana Stocker, UN Senior Solutions Adviser – fstocker@unicef.org
• Mohammad Khalid Khalid, Associate Coordination Officer (Durable Solutions) – mohammad.khalid@un.org