United Nations: The United Nations Human Rights Council is set to vote today on a European Union-backed proposal to launch a comprehensive investigation into human rights violations in Afghanistan. The inquiry aims to document abuses committed by both the Taliban and foreign forces, gathering evidence that could be used in future court proceedings.

This proposed investigation is expected to be one of the most extensive U.N. human rights inquiries, on par with ongoing probes into atrocities in Syria and Myanmar. The EU motion emphasizes the preparation of evidence for potential judicial actions, reflecting growing international concern over impunity in Afghanistan.

The United States, which had troops in Afghanistan until 2021 as part of NATO operations, has historically opposed scrutiny of its military actions. While Washington has previously resisted International Criminal Court investigations targeting U.S. personnel, it has supported examining Taliban-perpetrated violations. A State Department spokesperson reiterated that “the United States will not tolerate international organizations attempting unlawful jurisdiction over American troops.”

Human rights experts have welcomed the proposed investigation. Fereshta Abbasi, an Afghanistan researcher at Human Rights Watch, called it a “significant step that could break a decades-long cycle of impunity.” She added, “If it gives just one regional commander pause for thought on committing violations because he knows there is a case file open, then it’s worth it.”

Calls for such a probe have intensified as the Taliban continue to restrict women’s rights, suppress free expression, and impose harsh measures across Afghanistan. The investigation may also cooperate with ongoing International Criminal Court inquiries, although previous ICC actions concerning U.S. troops were limited due to political pressures.

Some nations that deployed troops to Afghanistan, including the United Kingdom and Australia, have launched national investigations into alleged abuses, but prosecutions have largely been rare. Meanwhile, China has expressed skepticism over the investigation’s cost and effectiveness.

The outcome of the UN Human Rights Council vote will determine whether this significant inquiry will move forward, potentially marking a critical moment in the pursuit of justice for Afghan victims of war crimes and human rights violations.