UN Rights Expert Calls for Accountability Over Violence Against Herat Protesters

DID Press: Richard Bennett has expressed concern over reports of excessive use of force against protesters in Herat and called for accountability for those responsible for acts of violence.

In a statement posted on X on Tuesday, Bennett said the situation requires de-escalation, respect for freedom of expression, and measures to prevent further harm to civilians.

The UN human rights expert stressed that any disproportionate use of force against protesters should be subject to investigation and that those responsible must be held accountable.

Bennett also urged the de facto authorities to uphold their human rights obligations and ensure that citizens can peacefully express their views and concerns without fear of intimidation or violence.

His comments come amid reports of confrontations between security forces and protesters in Herat, developments that have drawn attention from human rights organizations and civil society groups.

The reported incidents have renewed concerns about the state of human rights and civic freedoms in Afghanistan, with international observers continuing to monitor the situation closely.