The total death toll in the war zones of Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq, Syria and Yemen after September 11 may reach at least 4.5-4.6 million, although the exact death toll remains unknown, the report concludes.
Of all these deaths, 3.6 to 3.7 million are the indirect result of the wars, due to health problems, the implosion of economies, public services and the environment.
The actual number of victims may be higher. The researchers indicated using a “conservative measurement method” because accurate estimates are difficult to make. This is partly due to a lack of (reliable) data from war zones.
The purpose of the report is to draw attention to the full human loss of these wars and it calls on the United States, as well as other governments, to alleviate the losses and suffering in the former war zones.
The proportion of indirect deaths accounts for the largest part of the victims. Malnutrition, pregnancy complications and diseases such as infections and cancers.
The report also states that the indirect deaths are mostly women and children, where men traditionally suffer more losses resulting from the direct violence.
About the author: Jeff Roper
Jeff Roper has been teaching journalism for more than five years. A theorist who nevertheless took up some practice. He is fond of the history of journalism and journalism.
