UNAMA Raises Concern Over Detention of Women in Herat

DID Press: UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) has expressed concern over the detention and questioning of dozens of women in Afghanistan’s western province of Herat, describing the reported actions as raising serious human rights concerns and urging the Taliban authorities to respect fundamental rights, including freedom of movement and equality before the law.

In a statement responding to reports of the detention and interrogation of dozens of women in Herat city, UNAMA said the women were reportedly taken into custody over allegations of non-compliance with dress code regulations.

The UN mission stressed that all individuals are entitled to freedom of movement and that no one should be deprived of fundamental rights on the basis of gender. It also reaffirmed that women and men are equally entitled to the protection of the law and to equal rights.

UNAMA noted that respect for fundamental freedoms, equal treatment, and protection from arbitrary detention are internationally recognized human rights principles that must be upheld.

The mission did not provide further details regarding the number of women detained, the duration of their detention, or their current status. As of the time of reporting, Taliban authorities had not publicly responded to the allegations or the concerns raised by the United Nations.

Restrictions imposed on women in Afghanistan have drawn repeated criticism from international organizations in recent years. The United Nations and several human rights groups have previously expressed concern about the impact of such measures on women’s rights and freedoms.

Herat, one of Afghanistan’s largest urban centers, has frequently been the focus of reports concerning dress-code enforcement and broader social restrictions in recent months.

UNAMA said it is closely monitoring the situation and reiterated the importance of respecting human rights obligations and safeguarding the dignity of all citizens.