This archive report was first published on 30 July 2019.
According to the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, the first half of 2019 saw a significant drop in civilian casualties compared to the same period in 2018, but the numbers remain alarming.
Despite a 30% decrease in casualties, 1,366 civilians were killed and 2,446 injured, with child casualties accounting for almost one-third of the total.
UNAMA welcomed the drop but expressed concern over the continued harm to civilians, stating that the level of harm remains 'shocking and unacceptable.'
Pro-government forces, including the US, were responsible for 717 civilian deaths, a 31% increase from the previous year, with most of the deaths resulting from US and Afghan air strikes.
As the US-led peace talks with the Taliban continue, ordinary Afghans have continued to be killed and wounded, with UNAMA urging all parties to take immediate steps to reduce civilian casualties.
UNAMA head Tadamichi Yamamoto emphasized the need for parties to heed the call of Afghans for immediate action to reduce the harm being inflicted.
