Taliban Arrest 30 Women for Dress Code Violations, UN Reports

The Taliban has arrested at least 30 women in Afghanistan, accusing them of violating dress code regulations, UN Women reported on Thursday. The agency expressed grave concern, stating that these arrests intensify fear and apprehension among women and girls across the country.

These detentions come amid a growing struggle for women's rights in Afghanistan. Last weekend, dozens participated in a rare protest in the western city of Herat to denounce the Taliban authorities' actions. While information on the protests has been difficult to verify, local media reported that the Taliban's morality police had detained some women prior to the demonstrations for allegedly failing to adhere to hijab regulations. However, local authorities have denied these arrest reports.

Since regaining control of Afghanistan in 2021, the Taliban have progressively restricted women's roles in public life. This includes barring them from secondary education and severely limiting their employment opportunities. The mandatory dress code requires women to be fully covered in public, with only their eyes visible.

Reports from local media indicate that protests erupted last weekend after morality officials arrested women who opposed the strict dress requirements. Unverified videos circulating on social media appear to show armed officials dispersing a demonstration that included fully veiled women among the protesters. UN Women stated that Taliban security forces allegedly opened fire on the crowd, hitting men, women, and children. At least two individuals, including a boy, were reportedly killed, and over 20 were injured during the incident in Herat, a city known for its cultural and artistic significance.

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Taliban security forces allegedly opened fire on the crowd of protesters, targeting men, women and children.