Dedication Dedicated to human rights defenders in Afghanistan Our Annual Report 2020-2021 is dedicated to the brave They are used to working in dangerous environments, and tireless human rights defenders of the Afghanistan regularly facing threats to their lives. But they are now Independent Human Rights Commission (AIHRC), an APF exposed to greater personal risk, unable to live freely, member since 2005. unable to work safely, and gravely fearing for the safety of Since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in August their family members. 2021, there has been credible evidence of summary executions, acts of violence and intimidation, including threats against human rights defenders – those individuals, groups or organisations working to protect and promote human rights. We have worked closely with staff at the AIHRC for many Other human rights defenders, journalists, lawyers and women’s rights activists are also at risk of reprisals by the Taliban. These brave defenders have risked their lives for years to fight for human rights, to fight for justice, to fight for equality and to fight for peace in Afghanistan. years. These courageous individuals have been at the We stand in solidarity with Afghanistan’s human rights forefront of work to progress human rights in Afghanistan, defenders and continue to support the AIHRC staff as exposing human rights abuses across the country and they seek safe passage and humanitarian assistance. staunchly advocating for the rights of all Afghan people, including women, girls, and marginalised groups. 32 ASIA PACIFIC FORUM OF NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS INSTITUTIONS #LeaveNoDefenderBehind ANNUAL REPORT 2020/21 33