Independent Investigative Mechanism for Afghanistan (IIMA)

IIMA is a new UN investigative mechanism established by the Human Rights Council in October 2025. Its mandate is to collect, consolidate, preserve and analyse evidence of international crimes and the most serious violations and abuses of international law committed in Afghanistan, including those affecting women and girls. It will prepare case files to facilitate fair and independent criminal proceedings in national, regional or international courts that may have jurisdiction.

The Mechanism is currently being established in Vienna. The UN staffing plan provides for 42 posts, with recruitment phased across 2026–2028. 

Help advance justice and accountability for serious crimes in Afghanistan.

The Independent Investigative Mechanism for Afghanistan offers professionals the opportunity to contribute to a new UN effort focused on collecting, preserving and analysing evidence of international crimes and the most serious violations of international law. Working across investigations, international criminal law, evidence analysis, human rights and information management, staff help build the foundation for future fair and independent criminal proceedings. As a newly established UN mechanism, IIMA also offers the opportunity to help shape investigative systems and institutional capacity while contributing to long-term accountability for victims and survivors.