Taliban authorities in Afghanistan have arrested or detained dozens of women in recent months for alleged violations of dress codes and public appearance rules, the United Nations mission in the country reported Thursday. Between July and September, at least 52 women and one girl were arrested or detained in Kabul and the western city of Herat, according to the UNAMA mission.
Alleged violations included wearing colorful scarves, using makeup, leaving hair visible, or not wearing a chador, an all-enveloping cloak-like garment. UNAMA stated it is "gravely concerned" about the arrests, detentions, and threats of arrest, noting that the actual number of cases could be higher due to underreporting linked to protection concerns and stigma. The mission also reported being "alarmed by incidents involving verbal abuse, beatings and threats against women, including female shopkeepers."
Taliban authorities previously opened fire on a rare protest in Herat in June concerning arrests and detentions of women for alleged dress code violations. At least one person was killed and several were wounded during that incident, according to witnesses and the UN mission.
Since regaining control of Afghanistan in 2021 following the withdrawal of U.S.-led forces, the Taliban government has implemented rules based on a strict interpretation of Islamic law. These rules include significant restrictions on women and girls, such as a ban on education beyond primary school and limitations on their movement and attire. Women are required to wear a full hijab in public, which includes a headscarf, a long robe covering the body, and a face covering. Enforcement of these rules is carried out by the Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice.