Experts discuss an independent investigative and accountability mechanism for Afghanistan
On 5 March 2025, the Afghanistan Legal Research Network (ALRN) continued with the first symposium of the year focused on the need for a UN-led accountability mechanism to address violations of international human rights and humanitarian law in Afghanistan. Experts examined the role of international legal frameworks in fostering justice and accountability.
Sayed Abdul Wahab Sadat, an expert in international criminal justice, examined the historical context of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Afghanistan. His presentation highlighted the challenges of securing justice in the absence of a functioning domestic judicial system and explored the role of universal jurisdiction in holding perpetrators accountable.
Hamid Formuli, Senior Fellow at the Center for Dialogue and Progress – Geneva, provided insights into Afghanistan’s past engagement with international accountability mechanisms and the limitations of existing UN procedures. He emphasised the necessity of a long-term investigative structure to document crimes and support future prosecutions.
Azadah Raz Mohammad, PhD Candidate at Melbourne Law School, discussed the legal foundations of an independent investigative mechanism and its potential to bridge gaps in documentation, evidence preservation, and prosecution of international crimes. She analysed existing models, such as the investigative bodies for Syria and Myanmar, and their applicability to Afghanistan.
The symposium was part of a series hosted by The Foundation under the umbrella of the Afghanistan Legal Research Network. Afghan experts urged governments, human rights organisations, and international legal bodies to support initiatives that strengthen accountability and justice for Afghan victims.