The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) has published a report concerning human rights violations within the country, detailing cases of arbitrary arrest, torture, and extrajudicial killings of former government officials. The report, covering the period from April to June 2024, was compiled by UNAMA’s Human Rights Service.
UNAMA’s latest findings indicate “at least 60 instances of arbitrary arrest and detention, at least 10 instances of torture and ill-treatment, verbal threats, and at least five killings of former government officials and former Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF) members.” Highlighting significant concerns, the report underscores the risks of torture, ill-treatment, and other irreparable harm faced by those forcibly returned to Afghanistan. Previously, Amnesty International had called for implementing universal jurisdiction against Taliban members accused of violating international law based on earlier UNAMA reports.
The Human Rights Service further exposes ongoing restrictions on women’s rights under the Taliban regime. Since the Taliban’s seizure of power in August 2021, various restrictions have been placed on women’s liberty to work and move freely. Most female civil servants are now confined to their homes, except those working in specific sectors like health, education, and security. There have been orders to standardize their salaries to significantly lower amounts, discouraging their continued employment.
Additionally, the report highlights attacks by Islamic State—Khorasan Province (ISKP) targeting Shi’a Muslims, resulting in multiple civilian casualties. Incidents include an improvised explosive device (IED) detonation in Kabul and shootings in Herat and Bamyan provinces, leading to numerous deaths and injuries. Civilian casualties also arose from de facto security forces’ operations against poppy fields in Badakhshan province and cross-border confrontations with Pakistani military forces.
Further troubling aspects documented in the report involve the Taliban’s public administration of judicial corporal punishment. The authorities have carried out public floggings of individuals convicted of various crimes. Additionally, the Ministry of Justice has reiterated its commitment to implementing Sharia law, nullifying the previous government’s legal frameworks. Political activities and media outlets with perceived political affiliations have faced restrictions, with increased restrictions also imposed on journalists.
More details on the reported human rights violations can be found on the UNAMA website through this link.