UNAMA says at least 52 women and one girl were detained in Kabul and Herat between July and September over alleged dress code violations….reports Asian Lite News Desk
The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) has expressed grave concern over recent arrests, detentions and threats of arrest targeting women and girls by the de facto authorities in several parts of Afghanistan.
UNAMA said at least 52 women and one girl were arrested or detained in Herat and Kabul between July and September 2026. Other women also faced threats of arrest, while the UN mission warned that the actual number of cases could be significantly higher because of underreporting linked to protection concerns and social stigma.
According to UNAMA, the incidents were linked to alleged violations of dress code requirements imposed by the de facto authorities. Women were detained for reasons including not wearing a chador, having visible hair, wearing colourful scarves or using makeup.
Some women were also detained for being in public without a mahram, or male relative or companion. UNAMA said those detained were released after spending several hours in custody.
The UN mission also raised concerns over incidents involving verbal abuse, beatings and threats against women, including female shopkeepers.
UNAMA said such actions violate the rights of women and girls to freedom of movement, freedom of expression and personal autonomy. It also warned that arrests and detentions can expose women and girls to further social stigma and marginalisation.
The mission called on the de facto authorities to end discriminatory enforcement practices targeting women and girls and to ensure respect for the human rights and dignity of all Afghans.
UNAMA also urged the authorities to uphold Afghanistan’s obligations under international human rights law.
