11.03.2008 - Source: US Department of State

At least 14 protesters killed by police in 2 demonstrations ("Country Report on Human Rights Practices 2007") [ID 23960]

"A lack of physical security and interference from local authorities and security forces inhibited freedom of assembly in areas outside Kabul. For example, in June in Jowzjan Province, police fired on protesters demanding the removal of the province's governor, killing at least 10 persons and injuring at least 40. At year's end an investigation into the incident continued. In February and March 2006 protests took place around the country in response to Danish cartoons depicting the Prophet Mohammad. Police killed four protesters while attempting to protect foreigners from violent protesters."

Document(s): Open document

12.2007 - Source: UN High Commissioner for Refugees

Paghman: 2 demonstrators killed in demonstration held by landowners against the occupation of land; 30 people arrested by security officials ("UNHCR's Eligibility Guidelines for Assessing the International Protection Needs of Afghan Asylum-Seekers") [ID 23172]

"A recent example of such persecution by the State and non-State agents is reflected in the outcome of a demonstration held by landowners on 1 July 2006 in Paghman district of Kabul against the occupants of their land. Two of the demonstrators were killed, a number of them were injured, and some 30 people were arrested by security officials and detained for some time while others had to flee from the country. There are several other cases of land occupation by Government officials and former local commanders in different provinces of Afghanistan, for which the real owners have been detained, or warned not to raise the issue of land or compensation on the threat of death. Landowners resisting illegal expropriation can be viewed in relation to the 1951 Convention as having an imputed political opinion or being members of a particular social group."

Document(s): Open document

28.05.2007 - Source: Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty

Northern Afghanistan: Witnesses say police opened fire to break up a violent protest against a provincial governor, killing at least 13 people and wounding more than 30 others ("Police Fire On Protesters In Northern Afghan City") [ID 20286]

Document(s): Open document

06.03.2007 - Source: US Department of State

4 protesters killed in Kabul and one in Maymana by police ("Country Report on Human Rights Practices 2006") [ID 19505]

"In February police killed four protesters in Kabul and one in Maymana when demonstrations turned violent over satirical cartoons of the Prophet Mohammad."

Document(s): Open document