The former Afghan prosecutors who served the fallen pro-Western Afghan government

The former Afghan prosecutors who served the fallen pro-Western Afghan government are facing a dire situation in both Afghanistan and Pakistan. They are hunted by the criminals they helped convict, threatened by the Taliban who do not recognize their legal work, and denied protection by the international community who abandoned them. In Afghanistan, the Taliban have released almost all convicted criminals from the prisons, including murderers, drug dealers, and militants. These criminals are now seeking revenge on the former prosecutors who put them behind bars. Many former prosecutors have been assassinated, kidnapped, or tortured by the former inmates or the Taliban. Some have gone into hiding, constantly moving from one safe house to another, living in fear for their lives and their families. Others have tried to flee the country, but faced obstacles at the borders, checkpoints, and airports. In Pakistan, the former Afghan prosecutors who managed to escape are not much better off. They are living as undocumented refugees, without any legal status, protection, or assistance. They are vulnerable to harassment, exploitation, and deportation by the Pakistani authorities. They are also at risk of being tracked down by the Taliban or their allies, who have a strong presence and influence in Pakistan. Some of the former prosecutors have received threatening phone calls or messages from the Taliban, warning them to return to Afghanistan or face the consequences. The former Afghan prosecutors are not only professionals, but also human rights defenders. They worked to uphold the rule of law, justice, and accountability in Afghanistan. They prosecuted cases of corruption, violence, terrorism, and human rights violations. They defended the rights of women, children, minorities, and victims. They contributed to the development of a democratic and modern legal system in Afghanistan. They deserve recognition, respect, and protection for their work and their lives. We urge the international community, especially the United Nations, the European Union, and the United States, to take immediate and effective actions to protect the former Afghan prosecutors and their families. They should be granted asylum, resettlement, or humanitarian visas in safe countries. They should be provided with legal, financial, and psychological support. We also call on the Pakistani government to respect the rights and dignity of the former Afghan prosecutors and other Afghan refugees in Pakistan. They should not be deported, detained, or mistreated. The former Afghan prosecutors are not criminals, but heroes. They are not enemies, but allies. They are not a burden, but an asset. They need your help and solidarity.