Australia announces compensation plan for Afghan war crimes victims
Australian special forces soldier in combat gear standing on rocky terrain in Afghanistan.
The Australian government announced Saturday a compensation plan for victims “killed or abused” by its special forces in Afghanistan, following recommendations from the 2020 Brereton Report.
Brereton Report
The Brereton Report, which investigated potential war crimes by Australian Defense Force personnel, found evidence of serious crimes, including the “murder” of 39 prisoners and civilians between 2005 and 2016 in Afghanistan.
A Defense Department spokesperson confirmed the government’s commitment to implementing the report’s recommendations, stating, “We are dedicated to fulfilling the Brereton Report’s directives to the fullest extent possible.” This includes the establishment of the Afghanistan Investigation Compensation Plan, designed to provide compensation to identified victims or their families.
Australia’s involvement in Afghanistan
Australia’s involvement in Afghanistan included about 400 troops as part of a peacekeeping mission alongside the U.S. and other allies. Over the course of 20 years, more than 39,000 Australian soldiers served in the region. The country completed its withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021.
The compensation plan is a significant step toward addressing the injustices identified in the Brereton Report and ensuring accountability for the actions of Australian forces in Afghanistan.
