Australia announces compensation plan for Afghan war crime victims

The Australian Defense Department has unveiled a compensation plan for families of victims who were unlawfully killed or abused by Australian special forces in Afghanistan, Australian media reported Sunday.

Over the past 20 years, more than 39,000 Australian soldiers served in Afghanistan. As part of peacekeeping efforts alongside the United States and other allies, 400 Australian soldiers were deployed until their withdrawal in 2021.

During that time, an investigation revealed that Australian soldiers committed war crimes, including the murder and abuse of numerous Afghan civilians. Incidents included shooting prisoners, planting weapons, radios, and grenades next to bodies to suggest they were legitimate

targets.

The investigation highlighted systemic issues, such as inadequate mentorship and a “warrior culture” focused on status and power rather than exemplary soldiering.

The 2020 Brereton Report, led by Major General Paul Brereton, implicated 25 Australian soldiers in the murders of 39 Afghans and recommended criminal investigations.

Before pursuing legal action, the Australian Defense Force Inspector General recommended compensating the victims’ families. A defense department spokesperson confirmed the government’s commitment to implementing the report’s findings “to the fullest possible extent,”

including compensation.

The Australian government is expected to make further announcements in the coming months.

Deputy Spokesman of the Islamic Emirate Hamdullah Fitrat, however, says that this action is not enough and that Australia’s crimes in Afghanistan are far more.

“Australian government has confessed to its crimes and announced the compensation, but this is a small issue and it [paying compensation] cannot cover all their crimes in Afghanistan,” said Fitrat.

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