The UN representative in Afghanistan said he had doubts whether the trial was fair. Bo Asplund noted the trial was held in closed session and Kambakhsh had no legal representation.

Three months ago, Kambakhsh was detained after complaints from some of his university classmates for allegedly mocking Islam and the Koran and for distributing an article which said the Prophet Mohammad had ignored the rights of women.

His detention has also been denounced by journalist's organizations, which are putting pressure on the Afghan government to ensure his release.