UN mission says Taliban detained 52 women and one girl in Herat and Kabul
The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said the Taliban authorities detained at least 52 women and one girl in the provinces of Herat and Kabul between July and September 2026, an action it said has serious human rights and social consequences for women and girls.
In a statement on Thursday expressing “deep concern” over the arrests, detentions and threats of detention of women and girls, UNAMA warned that due to security and protection concerns, as well as social stigma, the number of unreported cases could be “significantly higher” than the recorded figures.
According to the statement, the detentions took place after the Taliban authorities claimed the women had violated its prescribed dress regulations. UNAMA said women were detained for not wearing a chador, having their hair visible, wearing colourful headscarves or makeup, or being in public without a male guardian.
UNAMA said the women were released again after several hours in detention, but stressed that the very act of detention and the threat of detention can expose women and girls to social pressure and further restrictions.
The UN mission also expressed concern over reports of insults, verbal abuse, beatings and threats against women, including female shopkeepers.
The UN mission in Afghanistan said again that these actions violate the rights of women and girls to freedom of movement, freedom of expression and individual autonomy. The statement added that the arrest and detention of women and girls expose them to “severe social stigma” and the risk of further marginalisation.
UNAMA called on Taliban authorities to end discriminatory measures against women and girls, ensure respect for the human rights and dignity of all Afghan citizens, and uphold Afghanistan’s obligations under international human rights law.
