The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) has expressed grave concern over the recent arrest of dozens of women and girls in Kabul by the Taliban’s morality police for allegedly violating the group’s strict dress code. UNAMA warned that such actions contribute to the growing isolation of women and girls, erode public trust, and intensify a climate of fear across the country.

In a statement posted on the social platform X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, July 21 (31 Saratan), UNAMA called on the Taliban to immediately repeal policies that restrict the fundamental rights and freedoms of Afghan women and girls. The organization emphasized that coercive enforcement of dress codes violates basic human rights and undermines social cohesion and women’s participation in public life.

This response comes after local reports from the Dasht-e-Barchi area of Kabul—a predominantly Shia community—confirmed that Taliban morality enforcers arrested dozens of young women on Friday and Saturday (27–۲۸ Saratan) for not adhering to the group’s interpretation of “proper Islamic hijab.”

According to sources, Taliban forces used physical violence during the arrests, and no female officers were present throughout the operations—clear violations of international standards for the treatment of female detainees.

UNAMA stated it is in contact with Taliban officials to obtain further details about the incidents. The agency stressed that such practices only deepen mistrust and fear, obstruct social reintegration, and diminish any remaining hope among women for a more inclusive and secure future in Afghanistan.

In its concluding remarks, UNAMA reiterated:

“We once again call on Taliban authorities to rescind policies and practices that limit the human rights and fundamental freedoms of women and girls. Women must be able to participate in the social, economic, and cultural life of the country without fear of repression or violence.”