A/HRC/7/27 page 2 Summary The present report, submitted pursuant to Human Rights Council decision 2/113, contains recommendations to address the situation described as well as ongoing human rights concerns raised in previous reports. Further, this report features highlights from the mission of the High Commissioner for Human Rights to Afghanistan from 15 to 21 November 2007. With the intensification of armed conflict, protection of civilians has become a major human rights concern. Insurgency-related violence has cost hundreds of civilian lives and created new groups of displaced persons. Coupled with increased criminality, it has hindered aid delivery and further constrained humanitarian access. Poverty, lack of access to food, medical care and education persist, particularly affecting women, children and the disabled. Despite advances in women’s rights, they still face severe social, economic and political discrimination. Laudable efforts in the rule of law, police and governance reform are yet to produce institutions that systematically protect human rights. Arbitrary detention remains commonplace and reports of torture persist. Impunity remains entrenched and there is little progress in transitional justice. Journalists face increased levels of threats and intimidation, undermining the vibrant media that has flourished in recent years.