UNAMA reports transparency gaps in Afghanistan security accountability

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) has released a report stating that while de facto authorities have implemented internal monitoring and disciplinary mechanisms for security personnel since August 2021, significant gaps in transparency and accountability persist.

According to the report, there is insufficient public information regarding complaints, investigations, and judicial actions taken against security personnel. This lack of transparency, combined with a fear of reprisals and barriers to reporting, undermines public confidence and weakens the deterrence of misconduct. UNAMA noted that women face additional obstacles in accessing these mechanisms due to existing restrictions on their daily lives.

Georgette Gagnon, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Officer-in-Charge of UNAMA, stated that visible and consistent accountability is essential to show that rules apply equally to everyone, including those in authority. The mission called for stronger enforcement of rules regarding the use of force, detention, and crowd control, and urged the establishment of safe, accessible complaint mechanisms that protect victims and witnesses from retaliation.