UN human rights experts have issued a condemnation of Afghanistan’s de facto Taliban government following recent events involving the detention of 30 women accused of violating dress codes and the excessive use of force against protestors in Herat. The demonstrations, which highlighted “increasingly repressive restrictions,” saw protestors, including women and children, being targeted with gunfire and physical assaults by authorities. The violence reportedly resulted in two fatalities, including a minor, and left 20 others injured. Although some protestors were accused of stone-throwing, the UN experts emphasized that such actions did not justify the lethal response from security forces.
These experts have called on the Taliban to adhere to international human rights laws, noting Afghanistan’s commitments under several treaties, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. They have stressed that law enforcement’s use of force is limited by international law, permitted only when it is lawful, necessary, and proportionate, and must adhere to principles of precaution and accountability. The recent detentions highlight concerns over potential instances of unlawful detention, as they appear to punish the legitimate expression of women’s rights to freedom of expression and protection from gender discrimination.
Georgette Gagnon, Special Deputy Representative for Afghanistan, confirmed the release of the detained women but cautioned about the ongoing stigma they may face. She urged the Taliban to respect the rights of all Afghans, including freedom of expression and protection from arbitrary detention.
The international community continues to scrutinize the Taliban’s treatment of women, especially since their return to power in 2021. The imposition of policies restricting education and employment for women has been met with global criticism. These measures not only violate fundamental human rights but also exacerbate Afghanistan’s socio-economic challenges by limiting the participation of educated women in the workforce, a critical need during crises such as environmental disasters. You can read more details about these issues here.