Taliban Detains 21 Women in Herat for Violating New Hijab Directive, UN Raises Human Rights Concerns

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan expressed concern over multiple arrests and detentions of women in Herat province for alleged non-compliance with dress requirements. UNAMA stated that the detentions raise serious human rights concerns.

The mission reminded the de facto authorities that all people have the right to freedom of movement and that all persons, both women and men, are entitled to equality before the law.

UNAMA posted its statement on X late on Sunday. Local media reported last week that at least 21 women and girls were detained in Herat province. " The directive warned that women who failed to comply with the dress code, including those showing their faces or wearing makeup, would face punitive measures, according to local media.

Reuters was unable to independently verify the directive. The Afghan Taliban did not respond to a Reuters request for comment. Since seizing power in Kabul in 2021, the Taliban has imposed sweeping restrictions on women and girls, including limits on access to education, employment and sport.

A UNICEF report released in April warned that the country was at risk of losing more than 25,000 female teachers and health workers by 2030 if restrictions on girls' education and women's employment remain in place. The Taliban says it respects women's rights in accordance with its interpretation of Islamic law.