Afghanistan: Targeted Killings of Civilians Escalate
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Investigate Recent Insurgent Attacks on Women, Religious Minorities
(New York) -- Insurgent groups in Afghanistan have escalated their targeted killings of women and religious minorities, Human Rights Watch said today. Recent attacks have killed at least five women, mostly journalists and media workers, and seven factory workers from the minority Hazara community.
The Afghan authorities should carry out prompt and thorough investigations into the killings, which are apparent war crimes, and prosecute those responsible wherever possible.
"A recent surge in targeted killings appears intended to drive women from public life and spread terror among minority communities," said Patricia Gossman, associate Asia director. "Unidentified attackers have also gone after journalists, civil society activists, and professionals, killing many, driving some from the country, and leaving the rest to live in fear."