A/HRC/22/37 rural communities Although the introduction of Afghan Local Police units has improved security in many rural communities, the programme has proved problematic in some locations, as the Afghan National Police have weak oversight and command and control over such forces. As a result, official police investigations into misconduct by Afghan Local Police have been inconsistent and often have not led to disciplinary measures, expulsion from the force or prosecution. The prison population has continued to grow significantly, placing pressure on facilities. In November, the authorities carried out 14 executions, the first since June 2011. While there has been progress in the implementation of laws designed to protect women, including the establishment of provincial-level offices to support enforcement of the landmark Law on Elimination of Violence against Women, the criminal justice system faces challenges in preventing violence against women. Entrenched discrimination, harmful practices and other forms of violence against women have continued to marginalize women and girls. The Human Rights Unit of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA/OHCHR) continues to work in close collaboration with the Afghan Independent Human Rights Commission (AIHRC); however, the long delay in finalizing the appointment of its commissioners had a negative impact on the work of AIHRC. UNAMA/OHCHR also supported Afghan civil society groups on initiatives such as the Afghan People’s Dialogue on Peace, with a view to promoting inclusivity and accountability in peace processes. 2