UN Reports Taliban’s Detention of Women and Girls in Kabul for Hijab Violations

The United Nations has reported that the Taliban detained dozens of women and girls in Kabul over three days in July, accusing them of failing to comply with hijab regulations. The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) characterized this action as a clear violation of human rights and an example of systemic discrimination against women.

Details of the Detentions

According to the report, the Taliban detained over sixty women and girls between July 16 and July 19 on accusations of improper hijab. The women were held for varying lengths of time, from a few hours to an overnight stay in Taliban custody.

Forced Agreements for Release

UNAMA noted that the families of the detained women were compelled to sign written agreements to secure their loved ones’ release. This process was reportedly carried out arbitrarily and without following legal procedures.

Worsening Restrictions Since Taliban’s Return

Since regaining power in 2021, the Taliban has imposed extensive restrictions on women’s lives, including prohibiting them from working in government and non-governmental organizations and barring girls from education beyond the sixth grade.

International Community’s Reaction

While the Taliban claims its regulations are based on Islamic law, international human rights organizations, including the United Nations, have condemned these actions as systemic discrimination against Afghan women.

Concerns About Ongoing Human Rights Violations

The UNAMA report emphasizes the alarmingly deteriorating human rights situation in Afghanistan, noting that increasing restrictions on women and girls pose a serious threat to their future.