Afghan civilian casualties on rise

The number of civilian deaths and injuries in Afghanistan rose by 22% in 2014, the United Nations says.
A total of 3,699 Afghans killed and 6,849 injured made 2014 the deadliest year since the UN began keeping records in 2009.
For the first time more people were killed in battles between the Taliban and government forces than by roadside bombs, the figures show.
Fighting between government forces and the Taliban accounted for just over a third of civilian casualties, while roadside bombs were responsible for 28% of civilian deaths and injuries, UN Special Representative Nicholas Haysom said, presenting the latest figures in Kabul.
Suicide attacks accounted for 15% and assassinations by the Taliban for 11% of civilian casualties, according to the UN figures.