UN Condemns Taliban Detentions of Women Over Dress Code

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) reported that Taliban authorities detained at least 52 women and one girl in Kabul and Herat between July and September 2026. The detentions were triggered by alleged dress code violations, including wearing makeup, colorful scarves, showing hair, failing to wear a chador, or appearing in public without a male guardian. While the detainees were released after several hours, UNAMA noted that many faced beatings, verbal abuse, and threats, warning that underreporting likely means the actual number of cases is higher.

These enforcement actions coincide with broader systemic restrictions on women's education and movement since the Taliban seized power in 2021. In response to these patterns, the International Criminal Court issued four arrest warrants for senior Taliban officials, accusing them of crimes against humanity for the systematic deprivation of women's and girls' rights. The Taliban rejected these warrants as a violation of national sovereignty.

Separately, the International Organization for Migration reported that nearly 6.5 million Afghans have returned from Iran and Pakistan since 2023. Findings indicate severe reintegration barriers, with 77% of returnees living in transitional shelters and 43% lacking the documentation required to access essential services.