New York: The Afghan Government must do more to bring the perpetrators of human rights violations to justice, a senior United Nations official has said, warning that unless "impunity" is addressed, past crimes will continue to undermine the future of the young democracy.

During nearly three decades of conflict, thousands of Afghan men, women and children were subjected to various human rights abuses, including the right to life and safety, freedom of movement, and access to education and health, the world body said, adding, many of those responsible are yet to be brought to justice.

In 2005, the government adopted an action plan to try to address the abuses of the past, achieve peace with justice and promote national reconciliation.

However, during her visit to the strife-torn nation last November, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Louise Arbour expressed disappointment in the lack of progress in implementing commitments made under the plan.

"One often hears the phrase action speaks louder than words. Here in Afghanistan, the lack of action speaks volumes," said Norah Niland, Chief Human Rights Officer with the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), stressing the need to "re-energise" the plan.

She emphasised the need for political commitment and stronger leadership at both national and international levels, noting that unless the issue of "impunity" is addressed, Afghanistan's future will be threatened by its past.

"Building an environment that is conducive to respect for human rights is fundamental to a peaceful and democratic society," she stated.

Source : PTI