More than 5,100: Record number of Afghans killed and maimed during past six months

Voice of America in-depth report
By Lisa Schlein, Ayaz Gul
Last updated on: July 25, 2016 3:22 PM

Here are the opening paragraphs:

GENEVA AND ISLAMABAD—

More than 5,100 civilians, including some 1,500 children, have been killed in Afghanistan in just the first six months of this year, the United Nations reported Monday.

That represents a 4 percent rise compared with 2015.

The overall casualties are the highest half-year total since the U.N. Assistance Mission in Afghanistan — UNAMA — began counting. The report notes that nearly 64,000 civilians in Afghanistan have been killed or maimed since counting began in January 2009.

The report blames the Taliban, Islamic State and other so-called anti-government elements for a majority of civilian casualties. It also finds, however, that the number of casualties by pro-government forces is increasing. Ground attacks, followed by suicide bombings and unexploded remnants of war, cause the greatest harm. 

Victims playing, praying

The report presents stark testimony by victims and their families of the agonizing impact these attacks have upon their lives. U.N. human rights spokeswoman, Ravina Shamdasani tells VOA the victims come from all sectors of society.

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