The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) has expressed concern over the suppression of protesters in the Jebrail area of Herat Province and has called on the Taliban to respect the fundamental rights of citizens.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, UNAMA reported that at least one teenage boy was killed by gunfire during the recent protests in Herat, while several others were injured as a result of beatings.
The mission also noted that reports regarding the death of another individual are still under investigation and verification.
According to UNAMA, at least 30 women were detained by Taliban officials from the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice in Herat between 7 and 8 June (17–18 Jawza) on allegations of violating dress code directives. The mission added that dozens of other women received verbal warnings.
UNAMA emphasized that all detained women were released on 9 June (19 Jawza), but warned that arbitrary detention can have profound and lasting consequences for women and their families.
Georgette Gagnon, Acting Head of UNAMA, stated that the detention of women in Afghanistan can have far-reaching social repercussions and may expose them to isolation, pressure, and increased violence even after their release.
She stressed that Taliban authorities are obligated under international commitments to uphold the fundamental rights of citizens, including freedom of expression, the right to peaceful assembly, liberty and personal security, and protection from arbitrary detention.
UNAMA further underscored that any actions taken by security forces must comply with international legal standards, including the principles of necessity, proportionality, and non-discrimination in the use of force.
The mission added that citizens should be able to express their views and engage in peaceful protest without fear of violence, intimidation, or retaliatory measures.
In conclusion, UNAMA called on the Taliban to revoke all policies and practices that restrict the fundamental rights and freedoms of women and girls, including limitations on freedom of movement, freedom of expression, education, employment, and participation in public life.
Writer:Salima Aryaei
