SPECIAL RAPPORTEUR ON THE SITUATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS IN AFGHANISTAN, KAMAL HOSSAIN EMPHASIZES THE IMPORTANCE OF COMPLYING WITH INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN LAW IN AFGHANISTAN

Geneva 21 December 2001



Reports of the death and summary execution of prisoners after capture are a source of serious concern, since such acts amount to breaches of international humanitarian law.

Grave concern has been expressed by international human rights organizations at the deaths which occurred in Qala-i-Janghi and the circumstances surrounding the reported uprising of prisoners. Concern has also been expressed about reported summary execution and maltreatment of prisoners. Inquiries need to be held on these reports by the authorities concerned and corrective action taken, including appropriate measures against any person found responsible for committing such breaches.

It is important that the international action against global terrorism be viewed as a campaign to uphold the international rule of law. Forces engaged in this campaign must thus be seen themselves to be complying with international humanitarian law. It is important for all concerned to keep this in view in order to ensure strict compliance with international humanitarian law, specially since increasing numbers of prisoners are expected to be taken in the coming days.




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