© UNAMA/F. Vaezi Local office of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan. UN: de facto Afghan authorities lack transparency in control over security forces Peace and Security
The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) released a report Monday on the country’s de facto authorities’ efforts to hold security forces accountable since August 2021.
According to the report, authorities created new oversight bodies, introduced internal monitoring mechanisms and adopted a series of directives to improve discipline among security forces. However, the mission notes a lack of transparency in the functioning of these mechanisms, including in handling complaints, conducting investigations and applying disciplinary measures. is a legal obligation of the de facto authorities and a necessary step towards improving governance and respect for human rights, factors that contribute to Afghanistan’s stability and compliance with international obligations, which serves as the basis for the country’s reintegration into the international community,” Gagnon said.
The report noted that authorities investigated individual security forces and referred cases to military courts. However, many complaints remain unanswered. Fear of reprisals, mistrust of government institutions and additional barriers for women contribute to this state of affairs.
UNAMA called on Afghan authorities to strengthen the accountability of security forces, ensure uniform application of rules for everyone, create safe complaint mechanisms and regularly publish data on violations, investigations and actions taken.