Britain still offers one of the most generous schemes to Afghan civilians. The US, for instance, pays a maximum "condolence" payment of £1,660 for civilian casualties, while Germany opts for a system of community aid rather than payments to individuals.
It is understood that payouts have been made to the relatives of 12 Afghans killed in a US rocket attack in the south of the country two weeks ago, signalling a new impetus among Nato forces to atone swiftly for mistakes.
Holewinski said: "There are signs that they are increasingly recognising that it must dignify and recognise civilians."
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2010/feb/28/coalition-payouts-afghan-civilian-casualtiesHow can a monetary payout "atone" or "compensate" for civilian deaths? How can money heal what is an emotional wound and memory?
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