In Afghanistan, dozens of women in capital Kabul took part in a peace march ahead of the traditional New Year, calling on all parties to the conflict to ensure a violence-free year. Marking the launch of a three-day civil society peace campaign, the demonstrators called on the government, US forces and the Taliban militants not to victimize Afghan civilians on their war policies. They had planned to submit a resolution to the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan but were barred from doing so for security reasons. The demonstrators also asked the international community not to leave Afghanistan until lasting peace is established. The organizers said the second day of the campaign will see candle light vigil in Kabul for the victims of the war. At least 2,777 civilians were killed last year in Afghanistan, the highest number since Taliban regime was ousted in 2001.